Greetings!
Thank you for taking the time to read United Way of Allen County's e-newsletter, which saves money in printing and postage. We hope this and future e-newsletters provide you with brief and timely updates about how your support is helping build a stronger community for all local residents. Please e-mail maryt@uwacin.org if you have any questions about this communication. Thank you for your support! |
United Way promotes financial stability:
Free tax help available
Millions of dollars in tax credits are waiting to be claimed by local low-to-moderate-income residents, and free help is available to claim those credits. Members of the Financial Stability Partnership, led by United Way of Allen County and the Volunteer Center @RSVP, are helping residents file their tax returns and claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
Residents earning less than $42,000 annually may qualify for the EITC and could be eligible to receive more than $4,500 back in refunds. As much as $6 million in tax credits go unclaimed in Allen County each year. Last year, the Financial Stability Partnership helped 1,074 low-income residnets file their returns. $1.4 million was retunred to these residents. The Financial Stability Parntership hopes to increase the number of returns and amount of money returned to the community this year.
Read the news release |
 Straight from Jerry Peterson, CEO
Q: How is the economy affecting United Way and its partner agencies?
A: Like most organizations with investments, our investment income is down, and because of that, we've had to trim some staff and the budget. But unlike other organizations, United Way's unique way of raising money helps us when times are tough. About 3/4 of our funds come to United Way through workplace campaigns; individuals like you choose to have a little taken out each paycheck and that helps spread the costs out throughout the year. Since donors don't have to write one big check, they are more able to continue giving to United Way. We are also incredibly fortunate to have generous donors; those who are employed are grateful to have jobs, and they dig deeper to help those without. So, while some of our campaigns are down, some have actually gone up, and overall, our workplace campaigns should bring in about the same amount as last year -- $4.7 million to help meet basic needs, improve success in school and promote family stability. |
UAW 2209 member and General Motors employee Kim Burnell has been giving to United Way since 1983 and couldn't be happier to be a Loyal Contributor. "I enjoy giving to my community -- there are so many people who need help. I am confident United Way uses my money to benefit the most people and to address the most critical needs," says Kim. "I appreciate that my donation comes right out of my paycheck--it's the easiest way to give." 