Earned Income Tax Credit: Support for Individuals & Familes

 “Originally enacted in 1975, the Earned Income Tax Credit was borne out of welfare reform efforts of the early 1970s. The Tax Reduction Act of 1975 originally added the credit to the Internal Revenue Code. After expanding during the years, the credit is now one of the principal anti-poverty programs for working families in the federal budget.” (Source: History of the Earned Income Tax Credit by Karin Napier)

EITC is a refundable tax credit available to working adults without children earning up to $15,880 through families with at least two children earning as much as $41,646. The credit can be as large as $4,824 and the average EITC credit for Cuyahoga County in 2006 was $1,918. In highly urban areas, it is estimated that between 15 and 20 percent of those eligible for this credit do not claim it.  In Lakewood, community volunteers, organizations and those people that work with families understand the need to encourage EITC filings among eligible residents.

The Lakewood Initiative for Financial Education (LIFE) is a partnership of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) preparers, IRS, Lakewood Public Library and The City of Lakewood.  LIFE seeks to expand the number of eligible families and individuals who file for EITC by providing free tax preparation services at Lakewood Public Library Main Branch in the Technology Center. LIFE will conduct the clinics on nine consecutive Saturdays beginning on Saturday January 29, 2011.  Appointments can be made by contacting the Library’s Technology Center at 216-226-8275 ext. 127.

LIFE is also a partner in the Cuyahoga County EITX Coalition.  In 2009 in Cuyahoga County, the entire coalition prepared 7710 returns with a total refund (including EITC) of $10 million dollars.  Lakewood is a participant/member of the coalition and in 2009 prepared 176 returns for a total refund of $244,351.  These numbers are impressive however money is left on the table each year because families fail to file a tax return.  Refer any individual or family who you believe could benefit from these services.  EITC supports not only the households that receive the credit but also the local economy in which they reside.

Lakewood Recreation Upcoming Events

Be sure to check out these great events and programs coming up through the Lakewood Recreation Department!

We continue to take registrations for girls’ basketball grades 3-5.

 

“Dive In” and watch “The Polar Express” on Friday, December 3 at the LHS Pool!  We will dim the lights, and you can watch this holiday favorite from a rented inner tube or noodle in the pool.  Hurry!  Tubes are going fast.  Reserve yours today!

 

You still have the opportunity to register your team for our Adult Volleyball leagues starting in January.

 

Looking for a chance to exercise this holiday season?  The LHS Pool has expanded daytime hours.  Check out the pool schedule here! We also have some great water aerobics classes both now and after the holidays! Lakewood Recreation also offers great “land” classes – Zumba starts tonight!

 

Santa will be stopping by the pool on Sunday, December 19 from 2:00p-4:00p to meet and take pictures with all the good boys and girls.  Admission is free with the donation of a non-perishable food item.  RSVP now!

 

Improve your basketball skills at our Winter Break Basketball Camp for boys and girls in grades 3-6.

 

Need a unique meal this holiday season?  Lakewood Recreation has several great cooking classes – Mexican, Mediterranean Diet, Lebanese, and more!

 

Daytime Learn-To-Swim for children ages 12 months – 5 years start on January 4 – morning and afternoon classes available!

 

We have several great unique sports leagues starting in the new year, so start forming your teams now for Whiffle Ball (January) and Inner Tube Water Polo (February)!

 

Please visit www.lakewoodrecreation.com for more information on these and many other great programs!

 

 

Job Seekers: The Ins & Outs for the Underemployed and Underemployed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By: Kathleen Burton, Ph.D.

Any life changing event such as job loss or being underemployed, can be, and often is, a shock to your whole system. You can experience some of the same feelings and stresses that you would if you were seriously injured, going through a divorce, or grieving the loss of a loved one. Under/unemployment issues do not discriminate and cut across all ages, race, sex, education, and economic status. Life is forever changed and you may experience all or some of the stages of grief just as you would with any other major loss. You are not alone and the grief response is a normal reaction to loss and is the way to begin to accept the reality of the loss or traumatic event.

While each person will experience and process loss differently, there are commonalities—intense feelings of loss, shock, anger, denial, depression, loneliness, fear, frustration, desperation, shame, guilt, discouragement, and worthlessness. The worry and anxiety about how you are going to pay the bills at times can be overwhelming. Other adverse health effects of being under/unemployed have been correlated with higher rates of disability, obesity, suicide, lack of preventative medical care, low birth-weight babies, and poor diet. Interspersed will be feelings of hope and excitement and these will also come and go while looking for a new job.

Because “life goes on” during this already difficult time, it is important to remember that under/unemployment can also be further complicated by the Holidays, continued losses of loved ones, existing health issues, going into and managing debt, the feeling of loss of not being able to more, and the continued unexpected daily things we all normally experience.

Studies have also shown a lack of understanding among healthcare professionals of the benefits of work and initiatives are under way to help healthcare professionals understand the links between work and health and that under/unemployment have real and negative impacts on people’s mental and physical health, as well as society. It is crucial that all who are in helping professions to be mindful of this when offering advice and support to people with all types of health conditions.

Reaching out for support and sharing difficulties can help problems seem less frightening and helps us to be more realistic about what is happening, giving us a better perspective on how to move forward. Talk to trusted family, friends, and colleagues about the problems you are facing.  Their care and support can help you cope as well as deepen your relationship with them. You will see that you are important to them whether or not you have a job. They will want to help in anyway they can, besides helping you find a new job. If you have a family, get everyone involved in making plans on how they can help as well as cope with a reduced income.

Seek out community resources. You have a right to claim unemployment/social service benefits and there is nothing wrong about doing so. Besides reducing regular living and utility expenses, search out sources of low-cost/no cost entertainment, recreation, medical help, food and clothing. Look for local organizations, programs, and professionals that provide programs designed to assist under/unemployed people find jobs, help with confidence, feelings of loss and stress, and improving job search skills. Also, look for self-help and support groups and continue to take care of your health.

The following are some strategies that will help you take control of stress:

• Establish a daily routine that includes a regular time for job search activities. Remember to maintain recreation and leisure time for yourself. Set daily goals that you know you can accomplish and keep busy and stay active. Isolating yourself can lead to additional mental and emotional stress. Go for a walk, go to the library, call a friend, volunteer to help someone else (to name a few), and continue to network.
• Tell everyone you feel comfortable with what kind of work you are looking for, and ask if they know of any jobs or any companies that employ people with your skills. Trusted friends, relatives and even acquaintances can make great contacts for you. Remember, many people get their jobs through “word of mouth.”
• Before you end your day, prepare a written plan for the next day. It will help keep your goals on track; and when you’re feeling down, you will have something concrete to refer back to that shows your accomplishments.
• Check into new career opportunities or the possibility of continuing your education.
• Keep regular hours, get regular exercise and rest. Limit your intake of caffeine, cigarettes and alcohol; and be sure to reward yourself on a regular basis.
• Read some books, take a workshop on, or talk with someone about stress management techniques. Anger, for example, can be a biggie especially when feeling things are out of your control or not going your way. Things can be said or done that can have long term effects. Don’t be too hard on yourself and just know that learning effective stress management skills could save you, your family, and friends from additional emotional strain.

• Pray. Studies have shown that there is something to be said about the “power of prayer”, even intercessory prayer. Prayer is positive, constructive, and healing. It strengthens faith and hope for a better tomorrow. Having a spiritual life can benefit mental and physical health, no matter your spiritual orientation.

Research has shown that when individuals are able to provide for their basics needs this boosts self-esteem and quality of life. Besides boosting self-esteem and quality of life, work also enhances relationships, provides daily structure and an overall sense of health and wellbeing. It provides a sense of  purpose. Losing your job doesn’t mean automatic psychological or physical ruin. The best news of all is that the research evidence notes that these effects can be reversed. When people return to work and able to meet their financial obligations, their health improves significantly. Most importantly, keep in mind that these are all aspects of loss that others have experienced, endured and survived.

Bottom of Form

References:

Berry, Mike. (2006, September 7) Top of Form

Bottom of Form

Unemployment damages physical and mental health. Personneltoday,

Human resources news, strategy and community.

Byrd, Randolph (1988). Positive therapeutic effects of intercessory prayer in a coronary care unit

Population. Southern Medical Journal, 81 (7), 826-829.

Goleman, Daniel.  (1991, October 5).  Psychology and Religion: A Spiritual Connection. St. Petersburg

Times, 4E-6E.

Pappas, Stephanie. (2010, March 20).  Job Loss Takes a Toll on Mental Health. Live Science Contributor.If you are under/unemployed and need further information on community resources and programs for job search skills, career counseling and various other supports, contact community organization such as Lakewood Family and Youth Services, the Cuyahoga County Mental Health Board, which can help you find additional support.

Worrying about the future that hasn’t happened yet – what a use of time1.

What’s the reality of the situation- factual reality vs. interpretation of situation-Name objective of reality

What is it that you are resisting? Self-care, rest, action, this is a place of reflection

What’s it’s costing you resisting your action?

 

Unemployment can be a mixed bag. It can be a downright good thing if the job you’re getting away from is extremely difficult and unpleasant,” Dooley said. “It’s not surprising that some people report that they’re satisfied. They’re finding useful and beneficial things to do with their increased time.”

 

Life Skills and Stress Reduction Group for HIV/Aids Individuals

This group covers topics on such issues as life skills, anxiety, phobias, panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, relationship, recovery issues, and other topics as determined by group members.

Meets the 1^st and 3^rd Tuesday of the month at 2:30 p.m. (Board Room)

St. Augustine Manor

7801 Detroit Avenue

Cleveland, Ohio 44102

For more information contact Kathleen Burton Ph.D., DCBT at 216-240-1215

 

Stress/Anxiety Support GroupFeeling a little overwhelmed? Feeling down and out? Experiencing a life transition or crisis? A self-help group for people experiencing stress (anxiety, phobias, panic, depression) and related concerns is open to anyone interested in a better life. The group is free and voluntary donations are welcome.

Meets the 1^st and 3^rd Tuesday of each month at 6:30-8p.m.

St. Luke Church

1212 Bunts Rd.

Lakewood, Oh 44107

For further information contact: Kathleen Burton, Ph.D., DCBT at 216-240-1215

Chex Recipes

Chili and Garlic Chex Mix
Ingredients
8 cups Corn or Rice Chex (I did combination)
1 bag of microwave popcorn
1/4 cup dry-roasted peanuts
3 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons of garlic powder
2 teaspoons of chili powder
Preparation
1) Heat oven to 350. In a very large bowl, mix cereal, popcorn and peanuts.  Drizzle with oil; toss until evenly coated.
2) In small bowl, mix remaining ingredients; sprinkle over cereal mixture. Toss until evenly coated.  Spread cereal in large roasting pan (ungreased).
3) Bake uncovered 15 minutes, stirring once at halfway.  Spread on wax paper to cool (about 10 mins) and store in an airtight container.

Chex Muddy Buddies
Ingredients
9 cups Rice or Corn Chex (again, I did a combo)
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 and 1/2 cups powder sugar
Preparation
1) Into a large bowl, measure cereal and set aside
2) In a 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter – uncovered – on high for 1 minute; stir.  Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth.  Stir in vanilla.  Pour over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into a 2-gallon resealable ziploc bag.
3) Add powdered sugar. Seal bag and shake until well-coated.  Spread onto wax paper to cool and store in an airtight container.

Ten Effective Communication Skills

By: Aysha Schurman

Effective communication skills may seem like a simple thing to master. However, if you don’t realize that effective communication skills involve more than just what you say, you probably confuse people all the time. Try the following ten tips to help you sharpen your communication skills.

To the point
Be as direct as possible, within the limits of good manners. Beating around the bush confuses people and makes them lose interest in what you’re saying. Be direct whenever possible and get to the point.

Manners count
Use your manners. Whatever type of communication you use, always remember your manners. Being polite is a much better way to put a person at ease than being rude. A person who feels open and at ease is much more likely to be receptive to what you have to say.

I statements
Use the word “I.” When you use the word “I,” you’re letting people know that what you’re saying is only according to your personal understanding, not a blanket fact. This can help keep people from feeling targeted and attacked. There’s a difference between telling someone “You’re ignoring me” and “I feel like you are ignoring me.”

Positive thinking
Emphasize the positive. Regardless if you’re conducting a budget meeting or trying to get a spouse to do the dishes, you need to keep the tone positive. This can help keep people willing to listen to what you have to say and prevent them from feeling defensive.

Understanding
You have to listen to understand. Actively listening to the conversation can do wonders for your overall ability to communicate. The same goes for written and non-verbal communication. Don’t daydream or let your mind wander. Instead try to visualize what is being communicated about and actively engage your brain in the subject.

Spice up your words
Make your communications interesting. If you’re communicating verbally, use different inflections and pauses to make the dialogue interesting. Use body language to help emphasize your words.  If you’re communicating through writing, always use proper punctuation to help dramatize certain points and create character in the text.

Visual cues
Use visual elements to help explain your communication. If you’re speaking or writing, try using pictures, graphs and other visual aids. This helps engage people’s senses and leads to greater depth of understanding.

Clarity
Avoid confusing and ambiguous language. Avoid using vocabulary that people won’t know or general terms that will leave people confused. It’s also best to avoid words that sound alike and may confuse listeners, such as where and wear.

You know what they say about assuming
Anticipate reactions, but never assume you know how someone will react. It’s smart to plan ahead and be ready for all potential situations. However, you don’t want to pigeon hole yourself into one scenario. Assumption will only limit your flexibility.

Patience
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to effective communication. If you rush things and become easily frustrated, your communication abilities suffer. If you are always ready to slow the pace as needed or go back over certain points, you will communicate much more efficiently.

Source: http://www.life123.com/relationships/communication/effective-communication/effective-communication-skills-3.shtml

 

 

The Joy of Winter: Another Perspective

It is just about this time of year again when so many of us start to dread the impending winter months. For some every winter feels dark and never ending, and for others, it is a struggle to fend off the winter blues or even severe depression.  It can also be a tough time of the year to be in your house especially if you are experiencing cabin fever, or at home more due to a job loss. But, winter can be a very positive and powerful time in our lives, and for the time we spend in our homes.

Winter energy is like no other time of the year.  This energy always seem so crisp and clear, like a veil has been lifted, revealing that within ourselves we hold all of the answers to our questions, or solutions to our problems.  The winter energy forces us to slow down with the promise that we will be given opportunities to savor living life in the moment. There is nothing quite like an early morning walk in the winter.  The snow crunching under your boots is the only sound you hear until you stop.  Then, around you only silence, and in that silence the knowing and clarity comes.  You are in the moment.

It is so easy to “fight” against winter.  It is acceptable for people to start conversations with their winter complaints.  And even if we don’t particularly agree that the weather is bad, we will give a nod or a quick “yeah, I know” because we can relate to the person suffering. Yet, we have a choice. We can choose to recognize that for now, in this moment, that it is winter and there is nothing we can do about it. We can make the choice to accept and embrace winter as a season as relevant, necessary, and joyful as any of the others.

Winter is truly a gift that gives us a chance to hibernate, not in a way that separates us from the outside world, but a chance for us to connect with ourselves and who we are. These months given for our hibernation allows us the time we need for reflection; to be still, to silent ourselves so that we can hear and relish in our thoughts.  As we rest, we prepare ourselves mentally and physically for the spring that waits—the season when our thoughts, created in the still of winter, are brought forth and put into action.  To be sure, the days will get longer, the ice and snow will melt, and the green grass will come back. But for now, use the precious time of winter by surrendering to the moment–and enjoy the magic of the winter energy.