Partners

Community Collaboration

Given the gatekeeper role that 211 provides, it is the responsibility of the service to develop cooperative relationships within the local I&R system, as well as the local delivery system. Engaging in collaboration increases the effectiveness and efficiency of the social service sector by helping to avoid duplication and maximizing resources by building on existing infrastructure. An I&R service often acts as the catalyst for new cooperative service relationships and becomes a focal point for new initiatives. 211 works cooperatively with local service provides to address issues that have a critical impact on the community as a whole.

211 and The Support Network participate in many co-operative activities including database partnerships, memorandums of understanding with other local 24 hour phone services, inter-agency networks, community initiatives, and act as the first response for many community campaigns.

The Support Network is also connected, provincially, nationally, and internationally, with associations such as Alliance of Information and Referral Services of Alberta, InformCanada, the American Association of Sociology (AAS), the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP), and the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS).



211 across the Alberta Capital Region


When 211 launched in 2004 it was only available to citizens with the City of Edmonton boundaries. We have now expanded that service to provide 211 to Leduc County, Parkland County and Strathcona County. Although The Support Network provides the telephone service, information on the local community services is collected and maintained by partners in those communities.  These partnerships are vital to the effective delivery of service to areas outside of Edmonton.

Our partners in the regional rollout of 211 are:

  • Information and Volunteer Centre for Strathcona County
  • City of Leduc Family and Community Support Services
  • Leduc County Family and Community Support Services
  • Town of Stony Plain Family and Community Support Services
  • Spruce Grove Family & Community Support Services

 

Last updated: August 10, 2009