Info Line's Blog

Info Line's Lifeline program offering free installation in December 2010

2010-12-02T14:44:00.001-05:00

Info Line - Lifeline December Free Install Promo

2010-2011 Akron EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit) Program Flyer

2010-11-16T13:27:00.001-05:00

Akron EITC Program 2010 - 2011

Citizenship Information Open House Nov. 13, 2010

2010-10-25T11:58:00.001-04:00

Citizenship Info Open House Nov 2010

Summit County, Ohio Flu Clinics - 2010

2010-10-06T10:23:00.002-04:00

Community Flu Clinics 2010

Salvation Army/Toys for Tots Holiday Assistance 2010

2010-10-01T08:55:00.001-04:00

Salvation Army/Toys For Tots Christmas Assistance 2010 - Summit County, Ohio

Free Legal Clinics in October 2010

2010-09-27T08:31:00.001-04:00

FREE Legal Clinics Oct 2010 - Summit County

Project Homeless Connect 5K RUN/WALK On Water

2010-09-01T08:44:00.000-04:00

Date

Saturday, October 23, 2010 @ 9:00 AM local time

Address

Summit Lake Community Center and Towpath
380 W. Crosier St.

Fees

$20 preregistration/$25 day of race

Registration Closing Date

Thursday, October 21, 2010 @ 11:59 PM

Brief Description

Project Homeless Connect 5K Run/Walk On Water is an event that takes you waterfront along the towpath and On the Water. The course goes across the beautiful floating towpath boardwalk which crosses the center of Summit Lake, one of the neatest sections of the Towpath. It also goes through the streets of Akron and along some older industrial sections of the city. This event is chip timed by the RS Racing Systems, who put on the Subway Challenge Series races.

Additional Information

The Project Homeless Connect 5K Run/Walk is a run/walk with prizes in both running divisions and walking divisions. Awards for top five overall male and female runners and top three overall male and female walkers. Age category awards for top three in the following age groups: RUNNERS: 11 & under, 12-15, 16-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 & over. WALKERS: 11 & under, 12-15, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 & older. Technical T-shirts for all preregistrants and great goodie bag. For more information call or email Sean Fremon at 330-351-2525, portagelakes@yahoo.com; Sue Pierson at 330-762-5627, spierson@infolineinc.org; or Keith Stahl at 330-253-9675, stahlkei@cssbh.org. This event is sponsored by the Akron/Summit County Continuum of Care.

Upcoming Medicare Info Event

2010-08-25T09:06:00.001-04:00

Sept 8 Medicare Info Event

Summit County Health District Adult Dental Clinic - August 2010

2010-08-16T09:57:00.002-04:00

August 2010 Adult Dental Clinic Flyer

2010-08-09T11:26:00.002-04:00

Job Center Flyer August 2010

Rep. Anna Eshoo & United Ways call for passage of HR 2-1-1

2010-07-14T09:54:00.000-04:00

2010-05-27T09:59:00.003-04:00

Here is some great information about the Safe Haven program from Summit County Children Services website, www.summitkids.org.

What is Safe Havens for Newborns?

Not all women who get pregnant are ready to raise a child. Sometimes they see no options except to abandon the baby. Safe Havens provides a new option. It allows a birth parent to leave a newborn infant (less than 30 days old) with:

a medical worker in a hospital;
a medical worker at a fire department or other emergency service organization; or
a peace officer at a law enforcement agency.

If the infant is left with a person at one of these places, and has not been abused, the parent will face no legal consequences for making this choice.

Who can take a newborn to a Safe Haven?

The birth parent (mother or father) can take a child to a Safe Haven. The law provides protection from prosecution only for the child 's parents.

Does the birth parent have to call before taking an infant to a Safe Haven?

No. A birth parent may take a newborn to a Safe Haven at any time until the child is 30 days old.

What information will the birth parent have to provide?

The birth parent is not required to provide any information, including his or her name. However, it would help the baby if the birth parent chose to provide basic health information. The birth parent will be offered a form to guide them in providing the most important health information.

What happens next?

If the baby needs medical attention, it will be provided. The professional staff person who accepts the baby will contact the county children services agency; and the baby will be placed in an adoptive home. There are many families who want to adopt a baby.

When a parent cannot care for an infant, leaving the baby at a Safe Haven may be the best choice for the child. If the birth parent is not sure about this decision, an adoption social worker can help by providing information on available options and services for birth parents and their babies. Information is also available:

Online at: HELP ME GROW

Toll Free: 1-800-755-4769.

Any birth parent who wants to raise a baby but doesn't know how, may also call the Help Me Grow hotline to get information about caring for and raising children.

Home Again / HPRP for Summit County

2010-05-20T10:04:00.002-04:00

Home Again is a collaboration of several Summit County social service agencies, which together will operate the Homeless Prevention Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) for Akron and Summit County.

The Partners For Home Again are:

- Info Line, Inc. - Central assessment and eligibility determination

- The Salvation Army - Homeless prevention services for homeless individuals and families

- H.M. Life Opportunity Services - Rapid re-housing services for homeless individuals and families

- Summit County Children’s Services - Homeless prevention and rapid re-housing services for emancipated youth who have aged out of foster care in Summit County.

Home Again HPRP funds can provide temporary financial assistance and housing relocation and stabilization services to those individuals and families who are homeless or would be homeless but for this assistance.

For more information call 330.615.0566. Office hours are 9:00am to noon, Monday through Thursday.

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HOMELESS PREVENTION

Homeless Prevention services are provided by The Salvation Army and Summit County Children Services. The main focus is on preventing homelessness by assisting those at risk of losing their existing housing. This will keep these households out of the shelter system. This is a program of last resort - all other options must be exhausted.

To be eligible for the program you must meet ALL of the following eligibility requirements:
- Live in Summit County
- Lack financial resources and support networks needed to obtain immediate housing
- Have sufficient income to sustain housing after receiving assistance, this generally means a household income of at least $500/month
- Have moderate barriers to obtaining market housing
- Household income must be at or below 50% of Area Median Income

You must also meet AT LEAST ONE of the following eligibility requirements:
- Age 18 to 30 and aged/aging out of foster care in Summit County
- Have notification that they will be evicted within 2 weeks from a private dwelling
- Reside in housing that has been condemned by housing officials and is no longer meant for human habitation
- Have a sudden and significant loss of income that may result in loss of housing
- Be at risk of utility disconnection that may result in loss of housing
- Face impending foreclosure of rental housing
- have current or past involvement with child welfare
- Experience high overcrowding
- Be discharged within two weeks from a hospital or other institution without a housing plan in place

The program will NOT assist with:
- Mortgage costs including fees, taxes, refinancing expenses and legal services
- Other costs such as construction or rehabilitation of shelters or housing, credit card bills or other consumer debt, car repair or other transportation costs, travel, food, medical and dental care and medicines, clothing and grooming, home furnishings, child care, pet care, entertainment activities, employment training, and work or education related materials.

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RAPID REHOUSING

Rapid Re-Housing services are provided by The Salvation Army and Summit County Children Services. The main focus is to assist those who are experiencing homelessness to quickly access and sustain permanent housing. This will minimize shelter stays and increase stability by offering supportive services. This is a program of last resort - all other options must be exhausted.

You must meet ALL of the following eligibility requirements:
- Live in Summit County
- Lack financial resources and support networks needed to obtain immediate housing
- Have sufficient income to sustain housing after receiving assistance; this generally means a household income of at least $500/month
- Moderate barriers to obtaining market housing
- Household income must be at or below 50% of Area Median Income

Must also meet AT LEAST ONE of the following eligibility requirements:
- Age 18 to 30 and aged/aging out of foster care in Summit County
- Sleeping in an emergency shelter OR
- Sleeping in a place not meant for human habitation (cars, parks,abandoned buildings) OR
- Graduating from, or timing out of a transitional housing program OR
- Staying in a hospital or other institution for up to 180 days but was sleeping in an emergency shelter or other place not meant for human habitation prior to hospitalization OR
- Victim of domestic violence

The program will NOT assist with:
- Mortgage costs including fees, taxes, refinancing expenses and legal services
- Other costs such as construction or rehabilitation of shelters or housing, credit card bills or other consumer debt, car repair or other transportation costs, travel, food, medical and dental care and medicines, clothing and grooming, home furnishings, child care, pet care, entertainment activities, employment training, and work or education related materials.

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For more information call 330.615.0566. Office hours are 9:00am to noon, Monday through Thursday.

Medication Disposal Event this Saturday

2010-05-19T11:25:00.002-04:00

Med Flier

Healthy Baby Fair and Family Expo 2010

2010-05-13T15:53:00.002-04:00

Healthy Baby Fair 2010

Akron Lawyers’ Free Advice Clinic May 3, 2010

2010-04-29T08:36:00.002-04:00

Free Legal Aid Clinic May 3 2010

Summit County Fuel Fund Assistance - April and May 2010

2010-04-22T15:09:00.003-04:00

Fuel Fund April and May 2010

Info Line collaborates with other local agencies for the Home Again program

2010-04-14T09:47:00.003-04:00

Home Again is a collaboration of several Summit County social service agencies, which together will operate the Homeless Prevention Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) for Akron and Summit County.

The Partners For Home Again are:

- Info Line: Central assessment & eligibility determination

- The Salvation Army: Homeless prevention services for homeless individuals and families

- H.M. Life Opportunity Services: Rapid re-housing services for homeless individuals and families

- Summit County Children’s Services: Homeless prevention and rapid re-housing services for emancipated youth who have aged out of foster care in Summit County.

For more information call 330.615.0566. Office hours are 9:00am to noon, Monday through Thursday. There's also more information about the program here.

Info Line offers Lifeline personal emergency response system

2010-04-09T10:38:00.002-04:00

Info Line offers Lifeline, an easy-to-use and designed to reduce the risk of living alone. In the event of a fall or an emergency, help is available at the push of a button. The Lifeline Personal Help Button connects you to a trained Personal Response Associate who can send help quickly - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
How does the Lifeline System work?

Summon Help: When you need, just press your Personal Help Button.

Professional Intervention: Your in-home monitoring system then dials the Lifeline Response Center and establishes two-way voice communication.

Personal Response: Quickly, a Lifeline Response Associate accesses your profile and assesses the situation.

Help Arrives: The Associate then contacts a neighbor, loved one or emergency services, based on your specific need. The Lifeline Response Associate will follow up to ensure that help arrived.

Who can benefit from Lifeline?
Info Line's Lifeline program helps you remain safely in your home when you:;

Are homebound

Live alone

Are an older adult

Are recovering from an illness or injury

Have medical problems or have a disabling condition

Info Line's Lifeline serves these Ohio counties:

Cuyahoga

Geauga

Lake

Lorain

Mahoning

Medina

Portage

Stark

Summit

Trumbull

Wayne

Call us at 330-762-0308 for more information.

Top 20 Agencies Referred by our call center in 2009

2010-04-07T11:39:00.001-04:00

In 2009 our 2-1-1 call center provided information for thousands of people in need in Summit County, Ohio. Here are the top 20 agencies referred to callers:

AKRON SUMMIT COMMUNITY ACTION
INFO LINE, INC. (to other programs such as MedAssist, Child Care Connection, etc.)
CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES
SALVATION ARMY - SUMMIT COUNTY
LOVE, INC.
AT&T
CORE FURNITURE BANK
SUMMIT COUNTY DEPT. OF JOB & FAMILY SERVICES
AKRON COMMUNITY HEALTH RESOURCES
CHURCH OF THE ANNUNCIATION
SUMMA HEALTH SYSTEM
COMMUNITY LEGAL AID SERVICES
HAVEN OF REST MINISTRIES
GOOD NEIGHBORS
AKRON HEALTH DEPARTMENT
AKRON CITY OF - PUBLIC SERVICE DEPT
AKRON URBAN LEAGUE
AKRON METROPOLITAN HOUSING AUTHORITY
OPEN M
EAST AKRON NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Visit www.211summit.org to search our complete database of over 1,200 agencies serving residents of Summit County.

Akron Grows Community Gardening Program

2010-04-06T11:48:00.001-04:00

AKRON CITY OF - DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT once again offers Akron Grows, a Community Gardening Program to promote and encourage urban gardening for Akron residents. Six vacant, City-owned lots located around Akron will be used as community gardens. Each site will be divided into multiple plots that will be available to the public on an application basis. There will be space for a total of about 100 individual plots at these sites depending on the size of plot desired. The City will provide access to water for each site and assist in soil preparation (tilling and humus/composting). Seeds, educational materials and classes will also be provided.

SERVICE HOURS:
Initial applications are due by Friday, April 23, 2010 to begin planting by early May, but later applications will be accepted thru the planting season.

APPLICATION/REFERRAL PROCEDURE:
For more information call:
(330)375-2311 Voice: Akron Customer Service Center 3-1-1
(330)375-2090 Voice: Akron Grows Community Gardening Program

ELIGIBILITY:
Serves residents of Akron.

FEES:
Akron Grows costs $20 for each plot measuring 20 feet by 10 feet and $30 for a plot measuring 20 feet by 20 feet. This helps pay for water usage. Each participating gardener will receive a voucher for $20 to assist in the purchase of plants and seeds.

Ohio Department of Aging's Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

2010-04-06T08:39:00.000-04:00

The Department of Aging partners with Area Agencies on Aging to offer the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program in 44 counties. The program operates from June through October each year and is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

You are eligible for the Ohio Senior Farmers’ Market program if you are age 60 or older and have an annual income of $20,035 or less as a single person.

To enroll, contact your area agency on aging. For Summit County residents, the phone number is (330) 899-5226. Staff there will be able to tell you how to access coupons. Participants receive ten $5.00 coupons valid through October. If you are homebound, you may select someone trustworthy to pick up and redeem coupons for you.

You can use your coupons at participating farmers’ markets and roadside stands. Look for the senior farmers’ market poster when shopping. Coupons can be redeemed for fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs and honey.

Summit County Fuel Fund Assistance

2010-04-02T13:46:00.002-04:00

Fuel Fund Flyer April 2010

Top 20 Requested Services from our 2-1-1 Call Center

2010-03-31T08:42:00.002-04:00

In 2009 our 2-1-1 call center provided information for thousands of people in need in Summit County, Ohio. Here are the top 20 services requested by callers:

Electric Bill Payment Assistance
Emergency Food Clearinghouses
Gas Bill Payment Assistance
Rent Payment Assistance
Water Bill Payment Assistance
General Furniture Provision
Directory Assistance
Comprehensive Information and Referral
Community Clinics
Holiday Gifts/Toys
General Clothing Provision
Dental Care
Homeless Shelter
Food Pantries
Utility Bill Payment Assistance
Prescription Expense Assistance
Tax Preparation Assistance
Food Stamps
Low Income/Subsidized Private Rental Housing
Discounted Utility Services

Free information about all of these services is available 24 hours a day by dialing 2-1-1 or 330-376-6660. You can also search our online database at www.211summit.org

Tomorrow we'll take a look at the Top 20 Agencies we referred to last year!

Info Line's new 2-1-1 Teen Link program

2010-03-30T09:49:00.006-04:00

Info Line's new Teen Link program provides information about health and human services for youth ages 13 to 18 in Summit County. The service is free and anonymous.

Phone: 330-376-6660 or 2-1-1

Text: Send SMS to 330-576-4021

Live Chat: Click the button below. Available weekdays 8:00am to 3:00pm

Here are links to a few of the services for teens in our 2-1-1 community resource database. To search all services and agencies please visit www.211summit.org.

Info Line's Project Connect

2010-03-29T09:56:00.000-04:00

Empowering nonprofits to serve more people through technology and connectivity ...

Project Connect helps nonprofit organizations to better serve their mission through technology and connectivity.

Our focus is on upgrading technology capabilities and utilizing resources more effectively, resulting in stronger organizations which can serve more people with more services.

We provide easy, affordable access to equipment and software, training, technical assistance, and website management.

Visit the Project Connect web site at www.pclivehelp.org for more information

Are you looking for Child Care Options?

2010-03-25T14:55:00.001-04:00

Info Line's Child Care Connection program can help you find a solution to your child care needs. The program's extensive database can help you find:

Family Child Care Providers

Child Care Centers

School-age Programs

Preschool Programs

Head Start Programs

Summer Camps

Agencies providing Nannies and in-home care

This referral service is provided to you at no cost. Call Child Care Connection at 800-407-5437 or 330-376-7706 for more information.

Community Voice Mail Summit

2010-03-24T14:58:00.005-04:00

CVMS provides free, 24 hour access to voice mail for people in transition and crisis directly linking them to jobs, housing, information and hope. It is a free service for people who have a case manager.

CVMS is part of the national network of CVM sites, empowering people living in poverty, transition and homelessness to rebuild their lives by connecting them to jobs, housing, case management, health care services and much more. We do this by customizing and distributing communications technology via a network of community-based services.

Users receive a personal phone number (with a 330 area code) and create their own personal greeting. They have the ability to retrieve/receive messages 24 hours a day from any phone. Only the user will be able to hear messages. The system sounds like a regular phone with voice mail capacity, thus removing barriers upfront. Info Line, Inc. trains case managers on how to instruct clients to use CVMS.

If interested in learning more about CVMS please call 330-315-1349 or email Mike Gibbs at mgibbs@infolineinc.org .

Help someone in need purchase lifesaving medication

2010-03-23T09:08:00.014-04:00

Info Line's MedAssist program accepts donations to help purchase lifesaving medications. Here are a few example scenarios of people MedAssist may be able to help with your donation:

Linda of Akron needs $16.62 to buy her asthma inhaler. When her hours were cut at work, she lost her health insurance and half of her income. Please consider a donation of $16.62 to help someone like Linda breathe easier this month.

Bob of Cuyahoga Falls needs $20 to pay for his blood pressure diabetes medication. He lost his job because of his health problems and has been unable to return to work. Please consider a donation of $20 to help someone like Bob this month.

Marcus of Fairlawn needs $30.44 to pay for his asthma, heart and diabetes medication. He was laid off this summer and has been unable to find work. Please consider a donation for someone like Marcus.

Donate now to help someone in our community purchase lifesaving medication:

Health Care Reform and You

2010-03-23T08:53:00.000-04:00

Confused about the health care reform bill? We are too! Here is an excellent tool from the NY Times that guides you through the major ways the overhaul will affect those who currently have health insurance and those who do not.

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2010/03/21/us/health-care-reform.html

The federal government also offers some useful information here:

What is the difference between 2-1-1, 3-1-1 and 4-1-1?

2010-03-22T11:31:00.002-04:00

An N11 code or N11 number is a special abbreviated dialing telephone number within the North American Numbering Plan, which allows access to special services. Usage is generally assigned as follows:2-1-1: Community services
3-1-1: Municipal government services, non-emergency
4-1-1: Directory assistance
5-1-1: Traffic information or police non-emergency services
6-1-1: Telephone company (telco) customer service and repair
7-1-1: TDD relay for the deaf
8-1-1: Underground public utility location
9-1-1: Emergency services

Generally, only 4-1-1 calls incur a toll. 9-1-1 access is mandated by law.

2-1-1 is the nationwide abbreviated dialing code for free access to health and human service agencies’ information. 3-1-1 is the nationwide abbreviated dialing code for non-emergency police and government agencies.

Calls to 2-1-1 are free and are routed by the local telephone company to a local or regional calling center approved by the Ohio Council of Information and Referral Providers (OCIRP). The 2-1-1 center's referral specialists question callers, access databases of resources available from private and public health and human service agencies, match the callers' needs to available resources and link or refer them directly to an agency or organization that can help. Calls to 3-1-1 work the same way, except calls are answered by the local municipality or governmental agency.

An excellent fact sheet can be found on the PUCO web site.

Meal Sites in Summit County

2010-03-19T10:30:00.006-04:00

Did you know that Info Line maintains a daily calendar of free meal sites in Summit County? This calendar features all of the details you need to locate a meal any day of the week!

2-1-1 Featured on the CBS Evening News

2010-03-18T08:44:00.000-04:00

United Way 2-1-1 in Indiana was featured on last night's CBS Evening News. Congratulations to our colleagues in the Hoosier State!

Watch CBS News Videos Online

The Taxonomy of Health and Human Services

2010-03-17T11:01:00.001-04:00

Ever wonder how Info Line's 2-1-1 service organizes and manages information about more than 5,000 local social services? We use the AIRS/2-1-1 LA County Taxonomy of Health and Human Services!

A taxonomy is thorough classification system that distinguishes concepts, names those concepts, and puts those concepts into a hierarchical order.

Examples of taxonomies include:

The Linnaean taxonomy for living organisms (Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species)
The Dewey Decimal System for libraries

In a human service context, a taxonomy is a classification system that allows you to index and access community resources based on the services they provide and the target populations they serve. It provides a structure for the information and it tells people what is in your information system and how to find it.

Some of the benefits of the taxonomy include:

- Comprehensive in scope
- Logical
- Uses terminology which is accepted in the human service field
- Allows data to be shared and compiled
- Flexible to permit change and growth
- Developed specifically for for a computerized environment
- It is required for national accreditation as a 211 service provider!

You can learn more about the 2-1-1 Taxonomy here: http://211taxonomy.org/

Where To Turn directory

2010-03-16T11:19:00.006-04:00

A new edition of Info Line's “Where To Turn” Directory is now available. The directory is $20/copy and contains information about more than 750 organizations serving residents of Summit County. To order a directory, please contact Info Line's Resource Department at 330-315-1402 or thite@infolineinc.org.

You can also view the complete directory by clicking the link below. if you like what you see, please consider supporting our non-profit agency by purchasing a printed copy.

http://www.scribd.com/full/28409027?access_key=key-97ynzhalkl06qjajynx

Ohio Appliance Rebates Start March 26, 2010

2010-03-16T08:50:00.000-04:00

Ohio residents can reserve and redeem their rebates for the purchase of the following eligible ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances.

ENERGY STAR® Products Eligible for Rebates	Rebate Level	Rebate Quantity	Budget
Refrigerator	$100	26,172	$2,617,200
Clothes Washer	$150	24,428	$3,664,200
Dishwasher	$100	20,938	$2,093,800
High-Efficiency Gas Storage Water Heater	$100	15,703	$1,570,300
Electric Heat Pump Water Heater	$250	2,094	$523,500
Total Rebates		89,335	$10,469,000

How do I get my rebate?

Ohio residents can start the process at 8:00 am on March 26, 2010 when the program officially begins.
Go online to www.OhioApplianceRebate.com to reserve your rebate reservation.
Purchase your eligible ENERGY STAR® qualified appliance from an Ohio retailer, vendor or contractor - be sure to keep your original sales receipt.
Recycle your old appliance - participating retailers have agreed to assist the Ohio residents with recycling old appliances.
Within 3 days after your reservation date, go online to www.OhioApplianceRebate.com to redeem your rebate - Print out your redemption form.
Mail your redemption form, original receipt, and proof of recycling to the address provided on the redemption form. You have 30 days to mail in this paperwork as instructed.
Track the status of your rebate at www.OhioApplianceRebate.com.
Get your rebate in the mail.

211Summit.org: Info Line's free community resource database

2010-03-12T08:39:00.000-05:00

Info Line's 2-1-1 service offers a free online database of health and human services for residents of Summit County. The database includes information about more than 1,100 agencies providing programs in the areas of:

Basic Needs
Consumer Services
Criminal Justice and Legal Services
Education
Environmental Quality
Health Care
Income Support and Employment
Individual and Family Life
Mental Health Care and Counseling
Organizational/Community/International Services

Visit www.211Summit.org to find services for you and those you love.

Pass the Calling for 2-1-1 Act

2010-03-11T14:10:00.000-05:00

WHY IS THE CALLING FOR 2-1-1 ACT NEEDED?

Although the 2-1-1 system has developed over the past decade through United Way and state government funding, the 2-1-1 system lacks stable long-term financing. Because of the expanding reach and increasing visibility of 2-1-1, many 2-1-1 call centers lack the resources needed to build an adequate telecommunications infrastructure, provide appropriate staff levels and training, establish or maintain 24-hour-a-day service, ensure complete and accurate informational databases, and reach rural populations. The Calling for 2-1-1 Act would provide the funding needed to meet these needs.

Here’s the complete list of where folks stand in the House and Senate:

http://sites.google.com/a/211us.org/pass211/campaign-tracking/full-list-of-congressional-members-both-branches

Info Line on Twitter and Facebook

2010-03-11T14:08:00.001-05:00

Info Line uses Twitter, Facebook and other social media to share news, events, links and announcements. Here are a few of the ways you can connect with us:

Info Line on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/InfoLine

Info Line on Twitter: http://twitter.com/infolineinc

Child Care Connection on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/childcareconnection

Child Care Connection on Twitter: http://twitter.com/ccconnection

Community Voice Mail on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CVMSUMMIT

Community Voice Mail on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CVMSummit

2-1-1 is a critical service during the current economic downturn

2010-03-05T08:48:00.003-05:00

2‐1‐1 is to personal economic emergencies what 911 is to police and fire emergencies. During the current economic crisis 2-1-1 has played an important role in assisting the newly unemployed and others in need. Here is a great summary provided by our friends at 2-1-1 Indiana:

What does 2-1-1 data show about the impact of the economy?

The newly unemployed, underemployed and anxious are creating a surge in calls to 2‐1‐1 around the country. Last year, 2‐1‐1 Centers across the nation answered more than 16 million calls and the majority of these individuals needed help with basic needs like food, utility, housing and healthcare. 2‐1‐1s are reporting that calls from these newly unemployed or newly underemployed are more complex, take more time and require additional explanation to navigate the complicated maze of services. In fact, in a January survey1, 86% of 2‐1‐1s across the country reported receiving more calls from callers who have never used 2‐1‐1 before. Furthermore, approximately 90% report received more calls from callers who have never before accessed any form of basic needs services (food pantries, rent assistance, utility assistance, public assistance benefits). For each of the possible referrals, the 2‐1‐1 Center maintains detailed information about the program location, hours, eligibility, intake process, and more. In the January study, 65% of 2‐1‐1 Centers reported that many human service programs are limiting eligibility, reducing hours, reducing services provided or otherwise making changes that overall reduce the availability of services in the community. In essence, needs have increased while resources are forced to cut back.

2-1-1 on CBS Evening News this Friday

2010-03-03T09:59:00.001-05:00

United Way 2-1-1 in South Bend, IN to be featured on CBS Evening News this Friday at 6:30pm ET. The CBS crew filmed for almost 2 hours in their call center, and all of their staff were interviewed. Jerry Quatman from Elkhart United Way and Lucinda Nord were on hand to discuss specifics of 2-1-1 and the economic conditions in Elkhart and the surrounding area.

The news story will focus on 2-1-1, increased call volume, the “economic crisis” people dialing 2-1-1 are in, and how 2-1-1 can assist those in need, many of whom are asking for social services for the first time.

From the 2-1-1 call center, CBS then traveled to Elkhart to complete a series of interviews with former employees of a restaurant, The Dakota,( now out of business), to document their life experiences with unemployment.

Back in October 2-1-1 was featured on a Today Show segment on NBC:

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Info Line and the 2010 Census

2010-03-02T10:48:00.005-05:00

Info Line has been asked to serve as a 2010 Census Questionnaire Assistance Center and we've accepted the challenge! From Friday March 19th to Monday April 19th the Census is setting up these assistance sites all over the country so people who have questions about filling out their Census forms can come in and talk to a real person so they are sure to be counted.

If you have questions about the questionnaire, call the national Telephone Questionnaire Assistance center at 1-866-872-6868. (If you prefer a Spanish-speaking operator, then dial 1-866-928-2010.) The lines will be open seven days a week from February 25, 2010 through July 30, 2010. For the hearing-impaired, dial 1-866-783-2010.

The U.S. Census counts every resident in the United States, and is required by the Constitution to take place every 10 years. The 2010 Census will help communities receive more than $400 billion in federal funds each year for things like:

• Hospitals
• Job training centers
• Schools
• Senior centers
• Bridges, tunnels and other-public works projects
• Emergency services

The data collected by the census also help determine the number of seats your state has in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In March of 2010, census forms will be delivered to every residence in the United States and Puerto Rico. When you receive yours, just answer the 10 short questions and then mail the form back in the postage-paid envelope provided. If you don't mail the form back, you may receive a visit from a census taker, who will ask you the questions from the form. The best way to ensure your privacy is to fill out the questionnaire and mail it back.

The majority of the country will receive English-only materials. Households in areas with high concentrations of Spanish-speaking residents may receive a bilingual (English/Spanish) form.

Any personal data you provide is protected under federal law.

Read more about the Decennial Census on the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2010 Census Web site:
http://2010.census.gov

Info Line in the Akron Beacon Journal

2010-02-26T14:17:00.001-05:00

Info Line was recently featured in an Akron Beacon Journal article about free tax filing assistance. Information about free services and eligibility can be obtained by calling us at 2-1-1 or 330-376-6660.

http://www.ohio.com/news/top_stories/84935767.html

Info Line Intern Success Stories and Testimonials

2010-02-26T11:25:00.001-05:00

It is an amazing feeling to see others succeed. At Info Line we had the honor of working with the Akron Urban League and their Summer Youth Program this past year. We had 10 individuals work at our agency for eight weeks. From the beginning, we knew there was something very special about the kids… rather, the young adults. Seeking employment in a challenging economy, they never showed signs of defeat or resentment. On the contrary, every day they came to work with a sense of wonder and hope. Witnessing their experiences inspired people throughout the office. Tasks and assignments that we see day-in and day-out, they saw with a fresh set of eyes. They were focused on what was possible and seemed unconcerned with the restrictions of what couldn’t be done. They moved forward on projects with a sense of purpose, knowing they were gaining valuable work experience. Work experience that would help them throughout their lives. They were something else indeed – something wonderful. I know I didn’t have that sense of awareness at that age (not to date myself there, but I do have a couple gray hairs that I color over with a sharpie marker - kidding).

As we neared the end of the eight week session, we began working on job development skills. We worked together to craft resumes, cover letters and set-up profiles on many popular job search websites (TIP – The University of Akron has an awesome one page listing of the most popular job search websites: http://www.uakron.edu/ccm/students/weblinks.php).

We also had a great opportunity to foster relationships with local employers that opened up new doors for future job opportunities.

Great news ~ within a month of the completion of their internship, two Summer Youth Program candidates secured new jobs. Way to go! We plan on staying in touch with them since we are sure we’ll be working for them one day.

Good luck to everyone out there! Thank you.

Intern Testimonials:

"During my stay at info line I have learned a various amount of things, mostly from you all. When I first start working at info line I liked working alone. As I opened up more and talked more to others I began to think maybe working with others isn’t so bad. I had the experience to build a work relationship with the staff and enjoyed it. I learned how to use an email in a more advanced way, and also how to express my self through writing in a great ethic way. I felt I was at home here. I also learned how to use Google map and map quest the right way, and also how to use well speaking skills while communicating with others. I would have loved to stay to help and continue to learn more about info line. This was a great working experience for me and I am so blessed to have been welcomed into the company with open arms. I thank all the staff for being so understanding and polite to me and the others. Especially our program leader who showed me the ropes and left the responsibility up to me to move forward with it. Thanks so much for that. I also would like to say that the experience of getting everyone to know about info line was awesome. I wish it could’ve last longer. In conclusion thank you once again for all your help and support. This experience will travel with me along the way." CONGRATULATIONS - Now employed at The Home Depot in Cuyahoga Falls.

"My experience being an intern at Info Line for the summer Youth program is, and has been a great, good, and wonderful experience for me. I’m learning a lot and I’m getting the chance to meet, and even work with some of the greatest people ever. I’m getting to see what Info Line is all and truly about and how useful it is to the community. I’m getting to see a lot that goes on throughout Info Line and I think its great how all the staff members involved in helping Info Line actually put their lives aside when they come into work to help other people with their needs and their problems. I’m learning great methods how to work with some of the staff members on projects and how to work in an office in general. I’m getting taught how to do certain office skills and duties that I could use or need in my near future. I’ve set a lot of goals for myself, and with working in Info Line’s environment is, and has taught me a lot about being responsible for myself, and my own actions. I really appreciate getting this privilege, and having an opportunity to get to work with so many professionals. I’m really glad to have met all these great people that have inspired me. Thanks to all of the staff members that have helped me and have giving me task to complete thank you for believing that I could accomplish getting the job done like you expected - I really appreciate that. I hope In the near future that I can be as helpful in any type of way as inside the work place. I’m willing to try my hardest to complete and do the task giving to me as best and significant as possible. I know there will probably be times that I may come across a tough situation outside of work but our program leader and other staff members taught me that my attitude reflects on my work and an bad attitude isn’t the best type of attitude to have inside the work place or my place of business. I’ve learned to keep all bad attitudes and negative things outside the work place and focus on the job in front of me. I strive to do the best I can which means putting on the best work performance I can during the hours I am here. I know being professional is very important and a great method to use in my future with other jobs. I know the staff and my supervisor expect a lot out of me so I’m willing to make my job as delightful as possible. In my past I’ve never volunteered or worked at any type of job. This is my first job experience I’ve ever had and I plan on making it the best I can possibly make it. With that being said I thank you again for all of the skills you all are teaching me - I really appreciate it all." CONGRATULATIONS - Now employed at Jimmy John's on Main Street in downtown Akron.

Thank you to these local businesses for employing our neighbors.

Accredited by AIRS

2010-02-24T09:55:00.001-05:00

Info Line is accredited by the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS). AIRS Accreditation assesses the ability of an Information &Referral program to demonstrate full compliance with the AIRS Standards for Professional Information and Referral. It is the primary quality assurance mechanism for gauging Information & Referral excellence. Accreditation is a multi-phase process that assesses more than 200 distinct operational components and culminates in a detailed on-site review.

We are very proud that Info Line was one of the first Information & Referral agencies in the State of Ohio to receive this accreditation.

Welcome

2010-02-24T09:46:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the new Info Line blog. We are excited to use this forum to share agency announcements, events and special initiatives. Check back weekdays for updates and feel free to comment on anything that interests you!