2-1-1 Frequently Asked Questions

2-1-1 Frequently Asked Questions

What is United Way 2-1-1?

A community resource for information about:

  • Human service agencies
  • Community clubs
  • Interest groups
  • Support groups
  • Government services
  • Recreation and education programs
  • Health resources

Why call United Way 2-1-1?

There are many good reasons to call including:

  • It can save you time
  • It's easy
  • It's confidential
  • It's "user friendly"

What is 2-1-1 and why did United Way Information & Referral make the change?

Since 1972, people in our community have been able to access quality information and referral services by calling (352) 332-4636. A toll call for many, the ten-digit number was not easy to remember and not well-publicized, prompting some to refer to our service as a "hidden treasure." People clearly needed better access, but how?

Enter 2-1-1, an easy to remember three-digit number set aside by the Federal Communications Commission for free public access to non-emergency social services, and advertised by an increasing number of 2-1-1 providers nationwide. Recognizing its value, our United Way made a commitment to bring 2-1-1 to the people of Alachua, Bradford, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy and Union counties. Just over a year later, in January, 2006, the newly-certified United Way 2-1-1 for North Central Florida was born.

United Way 2-1-1 is everything that United Way I&R ever was - and more. The free and confidential helpline available 24 hours a day, every day, thanks to a long-standing partnership with the Alachua County Crisis Center, is now a toll-free call as well. It is more visible, more accessible and prepared to serve more people than ever before thanks to the three digits that make the difference: 2-1-1.

OTHER SERVICES PROVIDED BY UNITED WAY 2-1-1

  • Database
    United Way 2-1-1's trained specialists use and maintain a comprehensive database of human service agencies, government services, recreation opportunities and education programs, as well as a variety of civic, social and support groups.
  • Directors and Lists
    In addition to this mini-directory, United Way 2-1-1 can prepare full-size desk directories and special directories for specific topics. 2-1-1 also maintains a collection of helpful lists, as well as brochures, which are available free of charge.
  • Statistical Data
    Follow-up is performed on calls as needed to document met and unmet needs. Statistics related to types of problems presented, their origin and the agencies to which callers are referred for help are compiled. These statistics are made available to community leaders and planners, and are available to others upon request.
  • Website
    A searchable version of the resources is available online along with our annual report and other information about the service. Those wishing to visit our office to do research may call us at 2-1-1 or (352) 332-4636 for an appointment. Our email address is info@unitedwayNCFL.org.
  • Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD)
    United Way 2-1-1 maintains a TDD for speech and hearing-impaired callers who would like to contact the service directly.
  • Public Speaking, Presentations and Training
    United Way 2-1-1 welcomes the opportunity to speak to groups, participate in community events and agency fairs, assist in training others to access community resources, and more. Just call 2-1-1!

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