Letter from Dave Barber, Executive Director, United Way of McHenry County

As we know all too well, Hurricane Katrina left tens of thousands of people without food, shelter or access to essential services.  Yet, some areas of the Gulf Coast were more prepared than others to respond to the needs of their citizens. The difference was 2-1-1; 2-1-1 is an easy to remember telephone number that connects people to important community services and volunteer opportunities.

2-1-1 provides immediate assistance during times of crisis by fielding calls regarding the crisis and directing callers to services most appropriate for their needs. When not serving as a disaster response solution, 2-1-1 facilitates access to services such as food banks, childcare centers, medical information lines, health insurance programs, job training, transportation assistance, adult day care, home health care, protective services, volunteer opportunities and donation centers.

2-1-1 is a fast and efficient way to access resources in local communities. It is a confidential information source that is available 24/7. 2-1-1 encourages prevention and fosters self-sufficiency in our communities. It also saves community organizations and government agencies time and money by consolidating public access to information and service.

With a 2-1-1 system in place, communities can address the diverse need of their residents and ensure increased coordination among services. The call data gathered through the 2-1-1 database will help identify gaps and overlaps in services and track human service usage. It is an excellent planning tool that allows communities to anticipate demand for services and mobilize resources to meet changing needs.

As of January 2007, 2-1-1 is available in 43 states and Puerto Rico, reaching over 65% of the U.S. population. Unfortunately, Illinois is not currently offering this service in our communities. On February 14, 2008, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) issued a statement which will begin the process of developing a 2-1-1 system here in Illinois (their statement is below for reference).  2-1-1 Illinois, a collaboration of organizations and other entities, is working with our Governor to ensure the development of the best possible 2-1-1 system for all residents of Illinois.  The goal of 2-1-1 Illinois is to connect people of Illinois with vital community services, disaster response and relief services in times of disaster, and volunteer opportunities.

2-1-1 will touch the lives of every person in our community, and whether you are in a situation where you need help or find yourself in a situation to give help, 2-1-1 will be there for you.

During recent months, the McHenry County Crisis Line, Centegra, the McHenry County Mental health Board and United Way of McHenry County have been investigating the possibility of requesting a pilot site for McHenry County.  Many of the requirements for a pilot site are currently in place here in our county and it would be a perfect opportunity for us to show everyone how to best serve the residents of our area.  A decision will be made shortly whether or not a proposal will be submitted by the Crisis Line for one of the pilot sites.  IDHS will announce the pilot sites on May 15, 2008.

People able to comment an this topic are:

Leonetta Rizzi - Director, McHenry County Crisis Line - (815) 334-5088
Sandy Lewis - Executive Director, Mental Health Board - (815) 455-2828
Dave Barber - Executive Director, United Way of McHenry County - (815) 363-1377
 

Dave Barber
Executive Director

United Way of McHenry County
4508 Prime Parkway
McHenry, IL 60050
(815) 363-1377  fax:  (815) 363-1878

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Therapy and therapist
An explanation of some of the therapies available.

Emotional Health
Looking after your state of mind is as important as taking care of your body.

Supporting and Caring
How to help support someone close to you.

For Teens
Focus on common issues teens are faced with.

Recommended Sites
This section is reserved for sites that we believe to be useful to those in crisis.