United Way offers help to find college funding
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Bryan, Ohio - April 28, 2010 - Only 11% of Williams County adults have a four-year college degree. Only 30% have any college at all. This leads to lower earnings, and more families living in poverty.
It doesn't have to be this way. According to the United Way's Common Good Forecaster™, if every adult moved up one education level, personal earnings would increase 15% in Williams County. At the same time, the poverty and unemployment rates would drop. It's clear that furthering education is important for our county and its residents.
But in such tough economic times, students and parents are in desperate need of funds to make college a reality. Yes, there are federal dollars available, but the aid applications can be confusing and difficult. Fortunately, there is help.
United Way of Williams County, utilizing the Ohio Benefit Bank, can assist you in filing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is required by colleges and universities and is used to determine eligibility for federal student aid including grants, loans, and work-study.
"It is amazing to see what can happen when those in our community
become more educated," said Chris Malanga, CEO of the United Way. "Assistance with the FAFSA is just one way we can help to improve lives, and strengthen our community."
The Ohio Benefit Bank is a counselor-assisted, web-based software program designed to ask the right questions and provide easy to read explanations to insure accuracy and maximum results.
Appointments to help students and parents fill out the FAFSA form will be held at the United Way of Williams County (108 E. Butler St. in Bryan). All that's needed is about an hour of your time, some basic personal information, and financial information (W-2's, tax returns, etc.).
To learn more or schedule an appointment to file your application, contact Rachel Arend at 419-636-8603 or via email at rarend@unitedwaywc.org.
For more information on the United Way, visit www.unitedwaywc.org.
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About United Way
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United Way has been county-wide since 1994. Residents of Bryan, Edgerton, Edon, Holiday City, Montpelier, Pioneer, Stryker and West Unity are being encouraged to LIVE UNITED.
LIVE UNITED means being part of the change. It takes everyone in the
community working together to create a brighter future. Together we can accomplish more than any single group can on its own.
Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED.
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