Information and Referral Day

What Is Information & Referral (I&R)?

Information and Referral (I&R) is a service that helps people find the support they need by connecting them to the right community resources — such as housing, food, mental health care, and more. I&R professionals listen, assess needs, and guide individuals to the most appropriate services available.

What is I&R Day?

I&R Day, observed annually on November 16, is a time to reflect on the critical role I&R professionals play in helping people access essential services. It’s also a day to recognize something unique about their work: many I&R specialists never hear how their referrals change lives.

They connect people to vital services — but what happens next? Often, they don’t know. That’s what makes I&R Day so important: it celebrates the unseen impact of their work.

The Silent Heroes Behind Every Connection

Every day, I&R professionals respond to calls, texts, and emails from people in need. They guide individuals and families through the maze of social services, healthcare, housing programs, and more. For someone in crisis, being connected to the right resource at the right time can be life-changing.

Yet, once the referral is made, their job is done. There’s often no follow-up, no feedback, no story shared. Did the family find housing? Did the individual get the mental health support they needed? The I&R specialist may never know.

Still, they carry on — helping person after person, day after day — believing in the value of their work, even without knowing the outcomes.

The Unheard Stories of Success

Imagine a mother in Halton calling an I&R specialist, overwhelmed by financial stress. She’s referred to food banks, housing services, and mental health support. Thanks to those referrals, she stabilizes her family’s situation. It’s a success story — but one the I&R professional may never hear.

Or think of a senior feeling isolated and alone. They’re connected to a community program that brings companionship and support. Their life improves — but the I&R specialist might never know.

These stories happen every day, thanks to the dedication of I&R professionals. Their commitment shines through, even when recognition doesn’t.

Why I&R Day Matters

I&R Day is a time to honor the resilience and dedication of those who work on the front lines of our communities. It’s a reminder that behind every successful referral is a team of caring, knowledgeable professionals who make it happen — even if they never hear the ending.

How You Can Celebrate I&R Professionals

Share a Thank You: If you’ve benefited from I&R services, share your story. Let professionals know the difference they’ve made.

Raise Awareness: Many people don’t know I&R services exist. Spread the word about their importance.

Use I&R Services: If you or someone you know needs help, reach out. Whether it’s housing, healthcare, or social support, I&R professionals are here to guide you.

The Work That Changes Lives — Even When We Don’t Hear About It

I&R Day is more than a recognition — it’s a celebration of lives changed through referrals that may never make headlines. Every I&R professional is part of someone’s success story, even if they don’t hear the ending.

Thank you to our I&R professionals. Your work makes a world of difference.