United Way 2-1-1 Seeks Volunteers

A mother and her child are huddled together calling the 2-1-1 Hotline while being forced from their home. As their stomachs rumble with hunger, the mother holds the phone up to her ear as she requests a place to seek shelter for the night. On the other line, there is a supportive voice counseling and connecting her with local resources that can stabilize her family.

This call is an example of 450 calls received by the 2-1-1 Hotline from Mount Pleasant out of 55,000 calls in the tri-county area this year. But it is only possible because people like you volunteer. Although 2-1-1 is funded by Trident United Way, it could never exist without the countless hours (an estimated 16,000 hours this year) and remarkable dedication given by volunteers.

Many 2-1-1 volunteers have viewed their experiences as learning opportunities for the future.  One volunteer said, “The skills taught in training and practice on the phones are ones I use every day”. In fact, they’ve made her a better employee. (TUW keeps the names of their volunteers and callers confidential). If you are ready to give back in a meaningful way – this is your opportunity.

There is still a great need for volunteers in order to assist the needs of callers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. By signing up to become a 2-1-1 Hotline volunteer, you will help serve more individuals who are in need of services during crisis situations. Comprehensive training is provided and scheduling is flexible, with available slots 24/7. The next training sessions are October 27 and October 28. Contact Philip Smith at 211Trainer@tuw.org or 843-566-7184 for more information about signing up for the next training!

2-1-1 Hotline’s ability to connect people with community resources is part of Trident United Way’s commitment to achieve our community’s three goals: increasing the high school graduation rate to 88%, increasing the number of people who are financially stable by 30% and increasing the number of people living healthy lifestyles by 25%.