United Way of Metro Atlanta

“The mission of United Way 2-1-1 is to connect people to the assistance they need to address every day challenges of living as well as those that develop during times of community emergencies.”

United Way of Metro Atlanta or Atlanta 2-1-1 is a community resource for Georgia residents and offers a multitude of services including:

• Crisis Services/Counseling
• Drug and Alcohol Services
• Employment Assistance/Services
• Financial Services/Assistance
• Volunteer Income Tax Preparation
• Legal Services
• Education and Training

2-1-1 is an agent of change that prides itself on the numerous initiatives that have been developed and implemented to help Georgia residents in times of danger, economic crisis, mental health issues, and social problems. 2-1-1 believes that it takes a community to come together to help one another grow and prosper. Even in tough economic times 2-1-1 has found a way to continue its work; even when financial resources and funding have been scarce.

History of United Way 2-1-1

For more than 35 years, United Way of Greater Atlanta has provided comprehensive I&R services to residents of metro Atlanta. From 1973 to 1986, the service was known simply as I&R. In 1987, I&R was renamed First Call For Help.

In 1993, First Call For Help became the nation’s first 24/7 I&R line. In May 1997, with the support of community and civic leaders and a technology donation from Williams Communities, the Public Service Commission assigned the 2-1-1 telephone number to United Way of Greater Atlanta and the line was named United Way 2-1-1.

The service played a vital role in the aftermaths of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the four hurricanes that struck Florida in 2004 and the Atlanta tornado in 2008. Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, United Way 2-1-1 put thousands of volunteers in touch with organizations needing their help

By the end of 2012 United Way 2-1-1 had answered more than 4.7 million calls. It continues to serve as a model for similar services nationwide, as well as a barometer of critical needs in metro Atlanta. Answering more than 1,000 calls a day, all confidential and free, United Way 2-1-1 does more than serve our community. It creates one.

How to use United Way 2-1-1

As a person in need, access to services provided by United Way 2-1-1 is a click or call away. Go to http://211online.unitedwayatlanta.org and enter your zip code or city. Enter your age and gender and click on the icon that best describes the service you are looking for.

Sources:

“Our Impact” United Way. 5 Mar. 2019. https://www.unitedway.org/our-impact/featured-programs/2-1-1

“Need Help?” United Way. United Way Atlanta. 5 Mar. 2019. https://www.unitedwayatlanta.org/need-help/

“Crisis.” 2-1-1. Org. 5 Mar. 2019. http://www.211.org/services/crisis-and-emergency