2-1-1 Virginia

Virginia Celebrates 2-1-1’s Five Year Milestone

As The Need For Help Increases, So Do The Number Of Calls To The State’s Free Referral Network

Richmond, Va. – During the past five years, the impact of the economic downturn has increased the need for social services throughout the Commonwealth. With an estimated 1 of every 7 individuals, receiving SNAP (The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) at some point in 2010, there has never been a better time to recognize the significant contributions of 2-1-1 VIRGINIA. The Commonwealth’s largest information and referral network marked its fifth anniversary on Feb. 11, 2011 (2-11-11).

2-1-1 Has a Positive Impact on Ranking

An article in the Richmond Times Dispatch on March 12, 2009 discussed Virginia’s move from a “D” to a “C” in overall ranking by National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Part of the reason for the improved grade was that Virginia was rated #1 in the nation because of its 2-1-1 service and the access to information and translators. Click here for the the full report.

FAQS about 2-1-1 VIRGINIA

What is 2-1-1 VIRGINIA? 2-1-1 VIRGINIA is the national abbreviated dialing code for free access to health and human services information and referral (I&R). 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember and universally recognizable number that makes a critical connection between individuals and families in need and the appropriate community-based organizations and government agencies. 2-1-1 makes it possible for people in need to navigate the complex and ever-growing maze of human services’ agencies and programs by making services easier to access. 2-1-1 encourages prevention and fosters self-sufficiency. The Virginia Alliance of Information & Referral Systems (VAIRS) is spearheading the 2-1-1 effort in the Commonwealth. The Virginia Statewide Information & Referral System, the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and VAIRS have partnered to provide 2-1-1.

Where is 2-1-1 VIRGINIA available? 2-1-1 Virginia is available to all people in Virginia.

Who are the providers of 2-1-1 VIRGINIA?
Council of Community Services (Roanoke)
Family Resource & Referral (Staunton)
The Planning Council (Norfolk)
United Way of Central Virginia (Lynchburg)
United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg (Richmond)

What if I dial 2-1-1 but it does not connect? Click here for information about correcting this problem.

Where can I get printed materials about 2-1-1 VIRGINIA? Contact the 2-1-1 VIRGINIA Coordinator, Barb Putney, by e-mail and she will send you the information you need.

Does funding 2-1-1 affect 911 funding? Absolutely not! 2-1-1 funding comes from local, state and federal resources but will not be sought through a tariff charge similar to 911 tariffs. In fact, the Federal Communication Commission’s ruling that allowed 2-1-1 stressed that it should be a tariff free service for users.

Is 2-1-1 available in other states? You can search for 2-1-1 in any state here.

What are the requirements for being a 2-1-1 provider? In order to become a 2-1-1 Center in Virginia the Information & Referral (I&R) provider must go through the Alliance of Information & Referral Systems (AIRS) Accreditation process and meet the national standards and the Virginia Alliance of Information and Referral System’s certification process. This a lengthy evaluation process that reviews four main components of I&R; service delivery, resource database, reports and measures, cooperative relationships and organizational requirements.

How is United Way involved? United Ways have a long-standing commitment to funding information and referral (I&R) services in their communities. In fact, each year United Ways allocate approximately $15 million for I&R services. Over 500 United Ways fund or operate I&R call centers around the country. United Ways are encouraged to collaborate with local human services I&R centers to consider the most efficient and effective use of 2-1-1 and draft a business plan for those purposes.

I want to help with 2-1-1 in my region. How can I get involved? If you have not done so already, please contact your regional Information & Referral provider. He or she can keep you abreast of important 2-1-1 topics and meetings. You can also stay informed by visiting this website for updates. Please promote 2-1-1 at every opportunity to colleagues, organizations, civic groups and especially to state representatives and legislators.

For more information, contact:
2-1-1 VIRGINIA Coordinator
Council of Community Services
PO Box 598
Roanoke, VA 24004
(540) 985-0131, ext. 211
E-mail: barbp@councilofcommunityservices.org