May 14, 2010

This year we're the closest we've ever been to passing the Calling for 2-1-1 Act, which would offer financial support to maintain and improve 2-1-1, an easy to remember number that connects people who want to give and get help.  It is one of the most universal N-1-1 services (e.g. 9-1-1) in the country - and the only one without dedicated funding.  Thanks again for helping recruit 220 cosponsors in the House of Representatives. We've continued to gain momentum - at 238 cosponsors in the House and 60 cosponsors in the Senate - but congressional leadership has not yet moved the bill to the floor for a vote.

They need some convincing.  We need to overwhelm their offices with emails that will show this bill has bipartisan support.

Will you help bring this bill to a vote by taking a few minutes to email your Member of Congress?

Times of economic downturn and crisis underscore the crucial role of 2-1-1.  Case in point: as the Gulf Coast oil spill nears the shore, regional 2-1-1 Call Centers are seeing a 300% spike in call volume from people who need help.  Every single voice and every letter sent to Congress will help to ensure that this valuable service remains stable and uninterrupted across the entire country. The passing of this Act will surely improve our chances of bringing Kentucky 2-1-1 to the entire Commonwealth.

Thank you for everything you've done. We've never been this close and now is the time for a big push.

Terry Tolan
President
United Way of Kentucky

PS: George Clooney, a former national United Way board member, thought 2-1-1 was an excellent idea when it was introduced to Congress seven years ago. Watch this one-minute video (featuring George) about how 2-1-1 connects people who want to give and get help.