2-1-1/First Call For Help is an easy to remember three-digit number that makes critical, immediate connections to community resources for individuals and families in Waukesha County. The service connects those seeking help, services, or volunteer opportunities with appropriate community based organizations and government agencies.

The three-digit telephone number 2-1-1 was created to access helplines and crisis intervention services.  In June 2002 it was incorporated into a First Call For Help service  to a service that has been available in Waukesha County for more than 40 years. The local 2-1-1/First Call For Help service, provided by the Mental Health Association in Waukesha County, was the first in the state and 21st in the nation to be accredited buy the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS). The service, available to everyone in the Waukesha County community, is provided through a partnership among the Mental Health Association in Waukesha County, the Waukesha County Department of Health and Human Services and United Way in Waukesha County.

Results:

Calls to 2-1-1 are divided into four categories. In 2006, 46% were for emotional support, 27% for information, 25% for referral, and 2% were crisis calls. The number of calls in Waukesha County increased by 23% over 2005 to 48,636 last year. Lisa McLean, Executive Director of the Mental Health Association in Waukesha County, said, "After contacting 211, 96% of the callers received community resources to meet their immediate needs."

For additional information click  2-1-1 PORTFOLIO or 2-1-1 UPDATE

United Way in Waukesha County's 2007 Days of Caring will focus on generating greater awareness of 211/First Call For Help.

For more informationClick Here