Getting the "411" on "211" from the United Way

When you live in an apartment building, like I used to in Courthouse, Arlington, VA, you meet some rather interesting characters in the elevator.

For example:

• Fellow runners, cyclists, and golfers
• A heavy-set, balding, clearly-closeted fellow and his "girlfriend"
• Most of a men's volleyball/basketball team (based on their height and physique)
• Young women trying not to be noticed on their walk-of-shame to the metro

One day I stepped into the elevator and noticed a lady, maybe 50 years-old or so, and she was wearing a "211" pin. Too often, on elevators and the metro, everyone rides in silence.

I don't like silence.

I'd rather meet people.
It's fun and interesting and each person has a story to tell or something of value to share.
Yes, I'm that "weird" guy that talks to strangers anywhere I go.

So I said hello and asked what the "211" meant. She explained that it's a phone service similar to dialing "411" or "911", but specifically to get information on food, housing, healthcare, and counseling.

"211" is run by the Department of Social Services, in conjunction with the United Way. If you're curious about all the services they provide, you can learn more at http://www.211.org/

Neato, huh? While I don't necessarily need "211" right now, I'm glad I didn't just stay quiet on that elevator ride, because now I know something I hadn't known before, and maybe it'll come in handy sometime.

Have you ever met someone interesting in an elevator? I'd love for you to either share your story here in the comments, or blog about it (and then make sure to share the URL in the comments here, of course).