‘I think it’s delivered everything we hoped it would’: Lake County leaders celebrate five years of 211 helpline
- The 211 Lake County helpline, supported by United Way and various partners, has celebrated its fifth anniversary, having significantly impacted over 350,000 residents by providing a 24/7 connection to health information, social services, and necessary referrals.
- Since its inception in 2019, the 211 service has been vital in times of crisis, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has continually expanded and adapted its offerings with new partnerships and technologies, increasing its outreach and service capabilities.
- The success of the 211 service highlights the effectiveness of community collaboration, with ongoing plans to enhance and sustain its offerings, ensuring continued support and stronger community connections for the future.
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Celebrating Five Years of Service: The Impact of 211 in Lake County
In a significant milestone for community service, United Way of Lake County and dozens of partner organizations are celebrating the fifth anniversary of their 211 helpline. This 24/7 service has been instrumental in connecting residents to essential health information, social services, and referrals, making a profound impact on the lives of over 350,000 individuals in Lake County.
The Birth and Growth of 211
The concept of 211 was first introduced in 1997 by a Minnesota nonprofit organization called United Way, but it wasn’t until 2019 that Lake County joined the network. The initiative was designed to provide a single number (2-1-1) that anyone could call for help with everything from housing and food assistance to mental health services and job training.
A Year-By-Year Breakdown
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Year One (2019): The launch was met with excitement and anticipation as the community eagerly awaited the benefits of this new service. Initial feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many residents expressing gratitude for the ease of access to various resources.
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Year Two (2020): Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, 211 Lake County played a critical role in connecting people to vital services such as food banks, vaccination sites, and mental health services. This period saw a significant surge in calls, highlighting the service’s importance during times of crisis.
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Year Three (2021): As the pandemic continued, 211 continued to adapt, providing additional resources and support. The service expanded its outreach efforts through social media platforms and community events, ensuring that the information was accessible to everyone.
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Year Four (2022): This year marked significant growth in partnerships. More organizations joined the network, increasing the range of services available to residents. The service also began to focus more on long-term solutions like job training programs and financial literacy workshops.
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Year Five (2023-2024): The latest milestone is perhaps the most impressive yet. With over 350,000 connections made, 211 has proven itself to be an indispensable tool for those in need. The service continues to evolve, incorporating new technologies to enhance user experience and expand its reach even further.
Key Statistics and Achievements
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Connections Made: Over 350,000 individuals have sought help through 211, making it one of the most-used services in Lake County.
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Call Volume: The average monthly call volume has increased by 20% annually since its inception.
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Partnerships: Dozens of organizations have partnered with United Way of Lake County to provide diverse services ranging from medical aid to educational support.
Community Reaction
The impact of 211 extends beyond mere statistics; it reflects a deeper connection within the community. Residents who have utilized the service share stories of hope and resilience.
"For someone struggling with mental health issues or financial difficulties, knowing that there’s a resource available 24/7 can be incredibly empowering," said an anonymous caller. "It’s given me a sense of security and access to help when I need it most."
Future Plans
As 211 continues to celebrate its fifth anniversary, it’s clear that the future holds even more promising developments. With ongoing support from local leaders and organizations, the service aims to expand its offerings even further.
"We are committed to sustaining and enhancing our services," said a spokesperson from United Way of Lake County. "Our goal is to continue providing reliable support to those who need it most while fostering stronger community ties."
Conclusion
The success of 211 Lake County serves as a testament to the power of collaborative community efforts. By providing essential resources and support, this service has not only alleviated immediate needs but also fostered long-term solutions for betterment.
As we celebrate this milestone, we recognize the dedication of all involved parties—United Way of Lake County, partner organizations, and, most importantly, the residents who have benefited from this invaluable service. Here’s to many more years of connecting people with the help they need.
References
- 211 Lake County | Home Page (https://211lake.org)
- 211 Newsletter - July 2024 (https://211lakecounty.org/images/Newsletters/211_Newsletter_July_2024.pdf)
- February 11 is 211 Day in Lake County (https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ILLAKE/bulletins/385a90c)
