Today we discuss 2-1-1 of Southeastern Oklahoma

Okay, this one I really know about because Ada Regional United Way wrote the RFP (grant) that made this program (now an agency) happen.

The wonderful idea was first discussed summer of 2003 or maybe 04 soooo long ago.  The State of Oklahoma decided that one simple phone number linking anyone with a need would be beneficial.  The service became live in February, 2006 in our area.  The program grew so fast to cover such a large area, that ARUW soon began to discuss 2-1-1 becoming its own non-profit to allow better funding from all the coverage area.

Well, now 2-1-1 of Southeastern Oklahoma is a separate 501 c 3 non-profit organization as of last June.

If you have any need whatsoever (health and human service related), you simply pick up your phone and dial 2-1-1.  An auto attendance gives you options, but you can simply enter 1 and be connected to a real person to help you.  This person understands the local communities and will have quick answers for you needs, that is of course if the agency supplying the need has given 2-1-1 their information.  You see 2-1-1 is actually a real time data base.

When a call comes in it is anonymous, but your zip code is required to locate the best up to date information.  If specific identification, verification of residency, etc is required, 2-1-1 has the details.  If help can only be given on a specific date, time, etc. 2-1-1 has the details.

I hope you see how this works.

If you know of someone needing assistance, please have them call 2-1-1.

The overall intent was to keep an individual from making up to 8 phone calls before locating what they need.  The individual might locate what was needed by the end of this time, but may have forgotten to find out specifics.  All that is now taken care of.

Friendly, caring call specialists are ready to help you 24/7, 365 days a year.

If you have any questions about 2-1-1, please make a comment.  I'll check from time to time. 

See you tomorrow with info regarding the next agency.  You'll have to wait until tomorrow to see who I picked next.