“2-1-1” is the three digit dialing code designated in 2000 by the Federal Communications Commission to provide widespread public access to community information and referral services. In response, there has been a national effort to develop statewide “2-1-1 systems” that will ensure that 2-1-1 becomes as easily recognized as 911 and 411.

Planning for 2-1-1 Wisconsin began in 1998.  The Wisconsin Public Service Commission confirmed the designation of the 2-1-1 dialing code for use for information and referral services related to health and human services in November 2001. Two years later, in September 2003, the commission delegated 2-1-1 authority to 2-1-1 Wisconsin Inc. for “proper administration of the dialing code.”

2-1-1 service originated in Dane, Milwaukee, Racine and Waukesha counties on Tuesday, June 11, 2002. Today, there are thirteen 2-1-1 call centers serving Wisconsin, providing access and service to all 72 counties.  By 2007, our call centers will answer an estimated 500,000 calls.