UWGN-2024 AnnualReport - Flipbook - Page 21
DIRECT SERVICES
UWGN works directly with community members to consolidate and eliminate
debt, increase credit worthiness, improve savings and asset management, and set
people on sector-driven career pathways to improve their employment stability and
earning potential. We help our most vulnerable neighbors increase savings and keep
more of what they earn, and provide them with education and training they need
to get better, high-paying jobs so they can see clear and attainable pathways to
brighter futures.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
In order to improve access to resources, increase the quality of support services,
and reduce the time children, families and neighbors live in poverty, United
Way of Greater Nashville brings together the Community Assistance Network
(CAN), formerly known as the Financial Assistance Network (FAN). CAN bridges
relationships between 昀椀 nancial institutions, state and local government, and faithand community-based organizations to provide our vulnerable neighbors across
Middle Tennessee a robust support network in times of need.
CATALYST FOR SYSTEMS CHANGE
By supporting the design of intentional and functional community support systems,
UWGN ensures that more families can increase their assets, wages, credit scores,
savings and overall 昀椀 nancial health. This means that more families are shifted out of
crisis and into economic self-suf昀椀 ciency, where they can begin to thrive.
Free federal income tax preparation is offered through Volunteer income Tax
Assistance (VITA) sites for households earning $76,000 or less, ensuring 昀椀 lers
receive important credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax
Credit. In 2024, VITA sites helped 9,712 families collect over $10 million in total
federal refunds, representing a 22% increase from the previous year.
21
