In mid-March, more than 1,000 United Way representatives from 49 states stormed Capital Hill to lobby for the passing of the Calling for 2-1-1 Act.  Debi MIser, executive director of the United Way of Miami County, and 19 other Hoosiers advocates for community service programs sought support from members of Congress and there staffs.

"Despite being consumed by the health care debate, members of Congress and their staff were gracious to meet with us," said Miser. "We literally witnessed the phones (in the congressman's offices) literally ringing off the hook.  All 20 Indiana advocates met with Senator Richard Lugar and Senator Evan Bayh's staff.  Our goal was to say 'Thank you' to Lugar for endorsing the 2-1-1 bill and try to persuade Bayh into signing the Calling for 2-1-1 Act now."

There are 15 2-1-1 Centers in Indiana, serving more than 444,000 callers in 2009.  The centers not only provide helpful information, but also refer callers to human services for every day needs in times of crises. Through 2-1-1 Centers, callers are connected to food banks and hot meals, shelters, rental and utility assistance, health care services, crisis intervention, substance abuse intervention, rehabilitation, tax preparation, assistance and job training.  Centers also provide information for educational programs, transportation assistance, child care, head start centers, service for seniors and immediate needs.

"Life is a marathon and not a race, and so it is with our journey to advance the common good.  We enjoyed many positive outcomes from our time together in Washington including increasing support for 2-1-1 Calling, educating our elected leaders on the work and focus of the United Way, participating in our American democratic process and irreplaceable networking among other United Ways.  My fondest wish is that we will have each discovered the power of our unique voices to advance the work of the United Way and I am confident that my wish has been granted, said Miser!"