In a recent episode of Early Learning Ventures’ What’s Up Wednesday series, Rachel Kirk (Client Success Coordinator) sat down with Wade Treichler, COO of Mile High United Way, and Kim Christensen, Disaster Response Manager for 211 Colorado.
What is 211 Colorado?
211 Colorado is a free, statewide service that connects individuals to over 6,000 essential resources, from housing and food assistance to child care and disaster relief. Last year alone, 211 Colorado handled over 170,000 contacts, connecting people with vital resources.
Whether you're a parent looking for child care, a senior needing help walking your dog, or someone seeking food assistance, 211 is designed to meet a wide range of needs. 211 is available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, and can be accessed by simply dialing 2-1-1 or going to their website: 2-1-1 Colorado.
A Network of Support
211 Colorado operates through a network of partners, including call centers in Colorado Springs, Grand Junction, and Pueblo. These partnerships help balance call volume and ensure that every caller receives timely assistance. Other organizations contribute by promoting 211, advocating for community needs, and helping identify new resources to add to the database.
Inclusive Language Services
Half of the 211 staff are bilingual, and last year they served over 20,000 Spanish-speaking callers. For other languages, 211 uses TransPerfect, a live translation service that supports over 170 languages. Case managers have even called to get access to 211’s translation services to speak to their clients.
Real-Time Resource Management
211 Colorado ensures that resources are current and reliable. All resources are updated in real time, with some reviewed monthly and others annually through a partnership with the State of Colorado. Individuals are able to create custom resource lists that will also be updated when they change in the system.
Disaster Response and Beyond
In collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, 211 serves as the statewide call center during emergencies. Their disaster response team is equipped to assist communities across Colorado—and even beyond, as they work to build partnerships with other states.
Meeting Needs, Identifying Gaps
One of 211’s roles is identifying unmet needs. By analyzing call data and collaborating with local organizations, they help communities adapt and respond to evolving challenges. This proactive approach ensures that no one’s needs fall through the cracks.
Need help or know someone who does?
Dial 211 or visit 211colorado.org to explore resources, get support, or learn more about how this incredible service is making a difference across Colorado.
Exciting news- 211 Colorado will be at our upcoming ELV event, Healthy Beginnings, Bright Futures! On September 6th from 11am-2pm, learn more about 211 Colorado and get access to resources you need.
