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2-1-1 Community Connection

January 2014

Message from Richard Porth
President/CEO, United Way of Connecticut   
 

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable tax credit that helps individuals and families with lower incomes keep more of the money they earned.  The EITC typically increases the tax refunds received by those who qualify, and in Connecticut it can be claimed on federal and state tax returns. 

 

2012 EITC English For qualifying individuals and families, the EITC adds to their tax refund and makes it possible to pay off debts, save for a rainy day, or invest in their future. 

 

This credit provides a much needed boost for low and moderate income workers, but it is estimated that anywhere from 20% to 25% of qualifying households do not claim the EITC. When you file your taxes this year, be sure to check whether you qualify to receive the EITC. 

 

You can learn more about the EITC and other tax credits you may be eligible for, and find free tax preparation help on our website or by calling 2-1-1. 

January is National Mentoring Month

One way to make a positive difference in the life of a young person (and your own) is to be a mentor. 

 

New research from the National Mentoring Partnership reveals that at-risk young adults with a mentor are more likely to aspire to enroll in and graduate from college, volunteer in their communities, and express an interest in becoming a mentor themselves.  

 

There are many youth throughout Connecticut who would benefit from a formal mentoring relationship, and there is a particular need for male mentors.  You can find mentoring opportunities with a call to 2-1-1 or a click to the 2-1-1 website.  To find mentoring opportunities online, just click here, enter your town or zip code and search for "Mentoring" under the Search by Service Keyword heading.

2-1-1 Stats for 2013

Last year, United Way 2-1-1 handled more than 442,000 calls and received over 565,000 visits to its website at www.211ct.org.

 

The top telephone service requests pertained to housing and shelter needs, help with heat and utilities, and financial assistance. Click here to see the top service requests for 2013.

2-1-1 is Connecticut's free information and referral service, and operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

Volunteer Tax Preparers Needed in Central and Northeastern CT

The VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program, which offers free tax help for low-to-moderate income individuals and households, is seeking volunteer tax preparers for the upcoming tax season. 

 

As a VITA volunteer, you will receive training and certification from the IRS. This is a great opportunity to learn a new skill and make a significant positive impact in your community.

 

Visit this link to learn more and sign up as a volunteer in Central and Northeastern Connecticut.  

 

Not in or near this area of the state? Call 2-1-1 to find a VITA program to volunteer with near you.

The mission of United Way of Connecticut is to help meet the needs of Connecticut and its residents by providing information, education and connection to services.

For more information, contact us at [email protected]

 

United Way of Connecticut  |  1344 Silas Deane Highway  |  Rocky Hill, CT 06067

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