The Underground Switchboard, a 24/7 Crisis Call Center, was created and opened its telephone lines to all who needed help... a safe haven and, more importantly, a promise that someone was on the other end of the line waiting to help.

Housed in the basement of St. Mary's Hospital, the Milwaukee Council on Drug Abuse used a staff of trained volunteers to receive calls from people threatening suicide; young people who were using street drugs; the homeless seeking food and shelter; and even pregnant teenagers.

Throughout the years, the scope of crisis has deepened and intensified. And the need for credible resources, free assessments and life-saving information has grown more critical.

IMPACT 2-1-1 has become the largest navigational system, and the only Coordinated Entry System for homeless services, in the State of Wisconsin - receiving 500 to 700 calls each day.

Today, nearly 50 years later, only the name has changed. Our mission has not. IMPACT 2-1-1 continues to be on the frontline of critical first calls. As we continue to serve our mission and the people who are among the most vulnerable, we ask for your support as we expand our services to meet the greatest need of those who count on us.