United Way volunteers gear up to provide

FREE Income Tax Assistance

Dozens of IRS-certified volunteers are stepping up in February, March, and April to help working families get back all the money they are entitled to receive. And this year, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) -- a credit many people are still unaware of -- is worth more than ever: up to $5,657 for some families.

Last year, volunteers working at two tax preparation sites helped local families get back a combined total of more than $100,000 through the EITC alone. This year, we've expanded our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) efforts to create the Tri-County Tax Team -- to serve not just St. Joseph County but also Elkhart and Marshall counties. And we'll have several locations, making it easier for people to get their taxes done and e-filed for free.

The need in Haiti is tremendous right now. And United Way is committed to helping people in need, whether they're around the corner or around the world. If you'd like to help, text HAITI to 864833 to make a $5 donation to United Way Worldwide's Disaster Recovery Fund.

Photo credit: Matthew Mark, American Red Cross

We're looking forward to a great year
in 2010. A year of redoubled efforts to
help fund and facilitate programs and initiatives that focus on Education, Income/Financial Stability, and Health.
These are the foundational elements of
a better life, and when we help people become stronger in these areas, our entire community benefits. 

Thank you for supporting United Way of
St. Joseph County and for helping us inspire hope and create lasting, positive change in our community.

Have questions?

Want to get your taxes e-filed free? Set up an appointment today!

Call 2-1-1, the United Way Information and Referral Center.

Volunteer
Income Tax
Assistance

22 Ways to LIVE UNITED brings hope to struggling families

In December, WSBT-TV teamed up with eleven United Way organizations to offer hope, resources, and help to people in need. Generous donors drove up to drop off financial contributions at the station and donate food to fill a Northern Indiana Food Bank truck -- greatly appreciated by the many area food pantries that benefited from the event. See more about 22 Ways to LIVE UNITED here.

If you missed the opportunity to give during the 22 Ways event, you can still give online any time
by clicking the DONATE button at the top of any page of this site.