United Way recruits 100 volunteers in 10 days

PRESS RELEASE

Media Contacts
Patricia A. Ellis, 313-226-9484 or pager, 313-840-1948
Megan Bracket, 313-226-9409 or pager, 313-840-4321

VOLUNTEERS RESPOND TO HELP WORKING RESIDENTS GAIN FINANCIAL STABILITY THROUGH EITC

DETROIT – Ten days ago United Way for Southeastern Michigan reached out to this community and asked for 100 volunteers to be trained in tax preparation services to help low-income individuals and families receive the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) federal tax refund. The organization reached out to many of its community partners and local media to help get the word out. Why? Because there are thousands of working individuals and families who are eligible to receive $412 to nearly $5,000 in tax credits but are unaware that they qualify for the refund.

Unclaimed EITC tax credits will result in lost revenue for our region and lost financial security for thousands working residents who are eligible for the tax benefit. The 100 additional volunteers will be able to prepare approximately 1,300 more free tax returns, representing approximately $1.2 million in tax credits.

“When we come together as a community we can make greater progress around issues that impact the success of our residents and our region,” said Michael J. Brennan, president and CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “These 100 volunteers responded to our call for action. By dedicating their time, they will be gaining a valuable skill and provide a tremendous service to hundreds of families who will be a step closer to gaining financial independence.”

Volunteers will receive free training, learn information on tax issues and tax credits as well as learn how to use tax software. Those who successfully complete the training will be certified in tax preparation and volunteer at least three days at one of the 30 free tax preparation sites in southeastern Michigan to help low-income working residents file their tax return and claim the tax benefits they’re entitled to. Currently only one percent of the EITC tax returns are prepared at the free sites.

The 100 volunteers represent companies such as AT & T, Capital Financial, Comcast, Comerica Bank, DTE Energy, Flagstar Bank, Matrix Human Services, National City Bank, State Farm Insurance and United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

The EITC Initiative is a partnership with the following organizations: Accounting Aid Society, Department of Human Services - Wayne County, Detroit Regional Chamber, Harmony Financial Network, Leaps and Bounds Family Services, Macomb County Asset Building Coalition, Macomb County Community Service Agency, Macomb Intermediate School District, Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency, The Tax Credit Initiative Coalition of Oakland and Livingston Counties, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, Wayne County Asset Building Coalition and the Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency.

To find out more about volunteer opportunities call United Way at 313-226-9430, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., or go to www.uwsem.org and click “Help Your Community”.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Torch Drive and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.uwsem.org.

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