The United Way is the home of the Humboldt Community Switchboard and Future 211

It’s no surprise to Humboldt County residents that we’re isolated from the rest of California; in fact, the people that live here prefer this location because of this factor. However, with this isolation also exists a stretch for resources and programs targeting people that have fallen on hard times (comparable to larger, urban areas). What results is an incredible amount of unity, a sense of community and a creativity for the resources that are available in our area. The Humboldt County Switchboard was created to connect community needs with local resources and aid.

The United Way of Humboldt County has a 10-year commitment to Information and Referral services through The Humboldt Community Switchboard (HCS). HCS provides assistance and referrals to callers who are helped to clarify their needs, identify options, and understand how to navigate and utilize services. The HCS can be reached at (707) 441-1001 or 1-877-460-6000. The database is accessible on-line, as well, at www.theswitchboard.org, and contains 1,400 nonprofit and government services including health, human service, education, recreation and emergency services. Monday through Friday from 9am to 1pm, trained Resource Specialists are available to help callers connect with appropriate services.

Currently The Switchboard is adjusting to meet the needs of the community by adapting to become a 2-1-1. 2-1-1 is an abbreviated dialing code for community services—similar to 9-1-1, but for non-emergency information, community services and volunteer opportunities. The implementation of 2-1-1 is being spearheaded by United Ways throughout the U.S. and comprehensive and specialized information and referral agencies throughout states and local communities. The Humboldt County Switchboard is the program designated by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to become Humboldt County’s 2-1-1 and we look forward to caring on the responsibilities.

The Women and Children’s Fund Helps the Community

The Women and Children’s Fund is a mini-grant fund that finances unmet needs in the community. It is intended to assist women and/or children in these needs. The Humboldt Community Switchboard has been administering the fund since 2006. It has been a partnered effort of the Humboldt Area Foundation, United Way of Humboldt County and the Switchboard. The fund is available through the historic sale of the YWCA building in Eureka which instigated the creation of an endowment. This endowment is managed by Humboldt Area Foundation and the interest from this fund makes up the Women and Children’s Fund. This fiscal year, approximately $20,000 gets redistributed into the Humboldt community to help meet the needs of women and children.