Caring Faces of 211: Meet Amy, Roxanne, and Tyrek

0116_CaringFacesBlogHeader 211
39c1726ae6e54fa6bbb69a7521c5ddd357fdfc0ca7dc043d38c242155d0f904a

Written by Jon Dorcely

Jon Dorcely is the director of marketing & engagement for United Way of Greater Toledo. If you would like to connect with him please email Jon.Dorcely@UnitedWayToledo.org.

January 16, 2026

Behind every call to 211 is a caring and compassionate person ready to listen, solve problems, and provide excellent service for those looking for help.

Read on to learn more about these incredible servant leaders:

Amy Jo Holland

Amy Jo Holland

How long have you been with 211?

Since 2/15/2021

What motivates you to do this important but challenging work?

I am motivated by knowing this work makes a real difference in the lives of the people we serve. Even when it’s challenging and resources are limited. We are always looking for new ways to help meet the needs of people in the communities that we cover.

What’s one thing everyone should know about 211?

211 is a free, confidential, 24/7 resource that connects people to local help. Many people don’t realize we aren’t just for emergencies, but also every day needs and challenges. Also, all of your calls are connected to a local human being in your community who can help guide you to resources.


11

Roxanne

How long have you been with 211?

14 months

What motivates you to do this important but challenging work?

I love helping people and trying to make a difference in our community. I like to be the listening ear that some people just need and I also like to be the person that can help them when in need. Even if I can only help 1 person during a shift I know I was able to help make a difference and make life a little bit easier for that person.

What’s one thing everyone should know about 211?

211 isn’t just about resources; in my opinion, it’s also about compassion and fighting for what is right in our communities. Getting more funding and new resources to serve the communities better. It’s also about being a listening ear to someone who just simply needs to vent. 211 lines are open 24/7, 365 days a year, so you will always get a real person to talk to, try and help in any way that they can. The entire 211 community has been coming together, and we are continuously brainstorming on what else we can do for our communities, what else is out there that people need. The people of our communities are the ones that we are fighting for daily.


12

Tyrek Hyde

How long have you been with 211?

1 year and 5 months

What motivates you to do this important but challenging work?

The times when people thank me for just listening to them or actually make them feel hopeful during such a miserable or hard time. Being a part of a collaborative, understanding, and supportive team that makes a difference to somebody by the end of a day/night shift. The times when the weight is lifted off my chest because someone asks for a resource that I know is readily available and fits their specific situation.

What’s one thing everyone should know about 211?

211 is an information and referral service at first and foremost. Yes, when given extra funding, we like to go above and beyond when we can to serve the community. We are people, too. We may not be personally going through the troubles you face, but we feel some extent of the frustration and fear of the rough times, and we try to advocate for you. You are not alone.

United Way 211 is a powerful resource for our community. To learn more about 211, please visit 211nwo.org!

You May Also Like…