Happy anniversary, 2-1-1

Today is this 2 year anniversary of the launch of 2-1-1.

During this time United Way for Southeastern Michigan 2-1-1 has:

• Received over 250,000 calls (24,000 in November 2007 alone!)
• Realized a 60% increase in call volume between years one and two
• Expanded our region of service to include Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, Washtenaw and Monroe counties
• Maintained a consistent 95% approval rating from our callers
• Expanded our community involvement to 14 different initiatives, including statewide collaborations
• Been the source of information and help to nearly every news outlet in our region
• Provided over 150 tours of our call center operations

Within the next few years United Way for Southeastern Michigan's 2-1-1 team expects to:

• Be the largest 2-1-1 operation in the country
• Receive over 500,000 call annually
• Be able to automatically text message or email referrals to those seeking service
• Offer online access to our database
• Reach between 80% - 90% of Michigan residents
• Have an internal 24/7/365 operation
• Double our team/staff
• Be the national leaders in vision and service delivery of 2-1-1 services

Did you know?
Our average caller:

• Is female
• Is from Wayne County
• Is between the ages of 40 - 49
  
• Makes less than $10,000 annually
• Has an income from salary or wages
• Is referred to us by another agency
• Is primarily seeking one of the following: housing, food, utility assistance; or employment
• Does not have internet access
• Calls United Way 2-1-1 from land line phones
• Is serviced by United Way 2-1-1 Specialists in just under 5 minutes

Thank you to all who helped and supported United Way for Southeastern Michigan's 2-1-1 throughout these past two years. We look forward to servicing this community for many more to come.

Bill Sullivan (and the entire 2-1-1 team)
Director, 2-1-1
United Way for Southeastern Michigan