Institute for Human Services/Helpline

The Institute for Human Services/Helpline is a “solution” organization that works within the community to address human service needs in Steuben County, New York. Through the use of local resources and strong volunteer commitments, IHS strives towards meeting four main needs identified in a 1982 assessment: the development of a central information, referral and crisis intervention service; improving the transportation system; increasing managerial and administrative efficiency through training, management, and technical assistance; and creating more communication and cooperation in the health, education, and human services fields. One way that IHS reaches these needs is through the creation and successful facilitation of community-centered programs, including HELPLINE, a 24-hour toll-free information, referral, and crisis intervention hotline; Steuben County Self-Help Clearinghouse, a support group information and technical assistance clearinghouse; AGREE, Addison�s Greater Economic and Education Project for improving the quality of life in the Addison School District; and The Financial Counseling Service of Steuben County. IHS also assists on various committees’ task forces, publishes a newsletter, brochures and many informational booklets and directories, and offers a referral service.