There are times when life can seem unbearable and there is too much pain, but one does not need to be alone. Help is only three digits away and with a simple phone call you will re- ceive a supportive, listening ear who is ready to talk about your

feelings openly and honestly. Modeled after the sys- tems of 4-1-1 and 9-1-1, the 2-1- 1 Hotline is a non-profit 24 hour crisis intervention line, which is committed to “helping others help themselves”. Operators provide the caller with non-directive, non-judgemental listening, in order to facilitate the caller’s feelings and need for support. The service is absolutely confidential and available to callers of any age. Advice and information will be provided on matters such as substance abuse, trouble with home-life, counseling, support organizations, nonprofit agencies, and basic needs services.

“It is a great resource for individuals that do not know where to go for help,” said Darrin

Jindra, Assistant Principal. Originally called Hotline the telephone service origi- nated in the 1970’s with the purpose to assist and address drug and pregnancy concerns. The line rapidly grew into a 24-hour confidential telephone information and crisis intervention service. It was around the the late 1980’s and early 1990’s when Hotline became aware of the rising tide of people who chose suicide to end their pain and with the help of two suicide survivors, Hotline created a Survivors of Suicide Support Group, which still meets

twice a month. In addition to this, the

Teen Hotline was created. Trained high school volunteers gave sup- port to teens who sought to speak with someone of the same age. As time passed and Hotline ex- panded its role in information and referral, it was certified by the American Association of Suicidology in 2002.

A year later Hotline le- gally merged with Trident United Way and became the 2-1-1 Hot- line which now offers a variety of

services to tricounty residents. These services include information about community resources by phone or online, information about volunteer opportunities, Channel 4 News volunteer spotlight, crisis response to community tragedies, support group for survivors of suicide, workshops for youth and adults, and training for phone counselors. Despite the growth and change brought about over the years the 2-1-1 Hotline remains steadfast to its original philosophy of “helping others help themselves”. To contact the organization, they are available 24 hours/ a day, through the following re- sources.

○ 24 hour Hotline - Dial 2-1-1 or (843) 744-HELP or 1-800-922- 2283 ○ TeenLine - (843) 747-TEEN or 1-866-873-TEEN

○ Online Information - 211OC. org