Serving Our Seniors Magazine Oct - Dec 2024

EJ Brinson, Executive Director of the United Way of Erie County, is working hard to launch a free tax filing assistance for residents in 2025 through two programs: the IRS Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program for those aged 60+ and the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program for households earning less than $67,000. To qualify for TCE, one household member must be 60 or older. For VITA, the total household income must be below $67,000. Eligible households will have their simple income tax returns filed for free, whether filing separately or jointly, at a VITA/TCE site. United Way is seeking volunteers, and no prior experience is required — just a willingness to learn. Volunteer hours are flexible, and Serving Our Seniors will provide a meeting space for tax preparation each Tuesday. Volunteers must pass a background check (this cost is covered by United Way), possess basic computer skills and complete the VITA training program. The preferred volunteer commitment is November to April, with flexible volunteer options available. Training will take place at United Way’s office in Sandusky, with group sessions and orientation provided. For those who prefer not to work with numbers, volunteers are also needed to help schedule appointments. To learn more or volunteer, contact EJ Brinson at 419-625- 4672 or ejbrinson@uweriecounty.org. With the Help of Giving People… The United Way to Offer FREE Tax Filing Assistance Last year, the Mylander Foundation funded a grant to purchase a new sound system, which made it possible for Serving Our Seniors to hold the majority of its forums at the Erie County Senior Center, 620 E. Water Street – Sandusky. The parking and entrance to the Erie County Senior Center building is much easier and the seating is set up with tables. The quality of the sound is ideal for speaking. Since November 2023 – August 2024, 697 attendees have participated in Serving Our Seniors forums held at the Erie County Senior Center. When Serving Our Seniors is not using the sound system for forums, the Erie County Senior Center uses it for their social/recreational/ educational activities. Although we are very grateful to the Erie County Commissioners for allowing us to use the Erie County Office Bldg, 3rd floor Chambers, it does require Serving Our Seniors to come up with the time and the muscle-power to re-arrange the room for adequate seating. Thank you Mylander Foundation for this generous gift, which is benefitting so many. Thank You Mylander Foundation! EJ Brinson, Executive Director of the United Way of Erie County 17