Every now and then, life throws us a curveball that stops us in our tracks. Some of us grapple with paying our bills on time, for example, while others are facing eviction and don’t know where to turn.

Whether you’re searching for information, or a resource for someone in the community, chances are that dialing 2-1-1 can solve your problem for free. Every day, thousands of people call, text, email and web chat with highly trained specialists at 2-1-1 to find food, housing, health care, financial coaching, job training and more. This vital service is part of United Way of Larimer County's efforts to tackle issues that matter most to our community.

Here are five ways that 2-1-1 could help you, too:

1. Filing your taxes, for free.
   Depending on your income level, 2-1-1 can help connect you with an easy way to file your taxes for free, in person or online.
   
2. Making sure your new child is growing developmentally.
   There is so much information out there about the early stages of child development that it can be hard to understand. 2-1-1 specialists can connect you to someone who can help, and in many communities actually offer developmental screenings by phone themselves.
   
3. Getting a new job.
   Whether you’re looking to re-enter the workforce, upgrade your job or find a new career, contact 2-1-1 and ask about resume review services, employment opportunities, and training programs near you.
   
4. Meeting the needs of an aging parent.
   Concerned about what to do with a parent or loved one as they grow older? Contact 2-1-1 to find resources to determine if staying at home is the best choice and the options available if it isn't.
   
5. Finding support.
   If you, a friend, or a loved one is looking for a therapist, addiction treatment resource or support group, don’t spend hours searching online or simply avoiding finding help. 2-1-1s maintain a robust list of resources in your community, including free services, so you can skip the frustration and headache.

Last year, 2-1-1 answered more than 14.3 million requests for help, on the phone, via text and web chat. Call 2-1-1 today to get your question answered, or visit 211.org.