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AWDA Help for Low Income Workers



AWDA can help determine if you are eligible for Food Stamps or Medicaid without waiting at crowded agencies. Get help with heating bills, or connect to Tax Credits worth up to $5,800. EarnBenefits Online is a state of the art technology tool that facilitates enrollment in public and private benefits such as tax credits, food stamps, health insurance and more.  EarnBenefits has connected low-wage workers to over 48,000 recorded benefits totaling over $58 million in value. AWDA EarnBenefits Counselors can help you determine if you qualify for benefits and apply for help.  Contact AWDA for a free benefits inquiry today!

 Cronus Keeps Atlanta Working 
     
(Above) Kevin Edwards, VP Cronus, interviews AWDA job seekers

Cronus Development LLC is a leader in providing value-added construction services for its clients. Since 2003, Cronus has earned its reputation for excellence by delivering quality work,  employing precise cost management habits, and creatively maximizing the time limitations of each project.  Cronus has employed almost 30 AWDA skilled job seekers for positions as HVAC specialists, plumbers, electricians and more.
As part of a special collaborative with AWDA’s Re-Entry Project, Cronus employs previously incarcerated men and women through general and skilled labor positions. “Many ex-offenders seeking jobs have valuable skills and can fill jobs for which skilled workers are often hard to find in our industry” stated Kevin Edwards, VP Cronus Development.  Cronus is a leader in helping to “keep Atlanta working”.

VITA Kicks Off A New Year 

Ms. Carter (right) greeted by VITA tax examiner Louise Klarke	Jamal Shanks (left)greeted by VITA examiner Wael Salama

Tax season is here! For many, the season brings frustration and anxiety. For approximately 600 Atlanta area workers, the process couldn’t be easier. They’ve taken advantage of the VITA (Voluntary Income Tax Assistance) program provided by AWDA and the Atlanta Prosperity Campaign. The program offers free tax help to workers who earn less than $49,000. The IRS certifies examiners to assist taxpayers with several special credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit and the Credit for the Elderly.

Often in less than an hour, forms are prepared and electronically filed with the IRS. VITA customers are provided the option of having their refund added to a Western Union credit card or a savings account provided by the City of Atlanta’s Credit Union. “I heard about the program from a friend, the staff were friendly, the service was fast, I’d recommend that everyone come to AWDA and participate in VITA.” stated Jamal Shanks. “After hearing about AWDA’s VITA lab at my church, I had my taxes done after work. The service was so fast that I was in and out in minutes and was told that my money would be in my account in less than a week, I love the VITA program.” stated Ms. Carter.
In its fourth year of operation, the AWDA VITA site has often surpassed its goal to reach and serve 1,000 filers. This year will prove to be another banner year for AWDA. The site is managed by Joyce Ellis. Ellis is joined by a team of examiners and quality control experts. The team works strategically yielding an average refund of about $4,000 for most customers. “It’s exciting and rewarding to see the faces of our clients, when we share the news of a higher refund than they anticipated” stated Ellis.

 Air Serv Serves Up Smiles for AWDA Client

Tanya Neal former AWDA client

When Tanya Neal entered AWDA in 2010, she and her husband had been laid off from work. Ms. Neal began her experience with AWDA as part of a special temporary work program. Her next big break came during an AWDA Job Fair.  “When I entered the room for my interview, I prayed that I would get a permanent job” stated Neal.  Her prayers were answered, she was hired on the spot by Air Serv Corporation.  “Working for Air Serv is a dream come true, they really care about their employees. I plan to make it to the 110% club. ” stated Neal.  Air Serv recognizes employees who exceed performance requirements.  Employees can earn points in areas of attendance and punctuality, appearance and demeanor, overall performance and customer recommendation. Employees who earn 110 points over a 12-month period are recognized during a special gala in their honor and are inducted into Air Serv's 110% Club.
“Before my permanent job with Air Serv, I found that I didn’t smile as much because money was so tight. I’m thankful that I’m working and that I now have a new reason to smile.” stated Neal.