Tax Credits Available for Businesses that Donate to Vernon Non-Profit Opportunity Works Connecticut
(VERNON, Connecticut) – Opportunity Works Connecticut, a Vernon-based non-profit that supports people with intellectual and physical disabilities, has been approved for the 2022 Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act Grant Program, which allows the group to receive cash grants from businesses in exchange for tax credits.
Opportunity Works is seeking to raise $63,000 for replacement of its heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Businesses that contribute a minimum of $250 are eligible for a tax credit valued at up to 100 percent of the donation amount.
“Opportunity Works provides meaningful opportunities to our friends, neighbors and relatives who benefit from its services,” Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne said. “The Neighborhood Assistance Act, as its name implies, is a great opportunity for businesses to help local non-profits make a difference and receive a generous tax benefit for their charitable giving.”
Opportunity Works endeavors to foster a sense of respect and dignity, which enables individuals to have greater participation in the services the organization offers, said Rene Lambert, the executive director and co-founder of Opportunity Works.
“We are expanding the services we offer and expanding our office space, which is what brought about our need to upgrade our HVAC systems,” Lambert said. “The existing HVAC systems are 45 to 50 years old and some do not work. This project will ensure our clients and staff can work in an environment that is comfortable.”
To contribute to the Opportunity Works project, please visit: https://portal.ct.gov/DRS/Connecticut-Neighborhood-Assistance-Act-Form. Donations must be made via the linked form between September 15th and October 3rd, 2022.
The organization’s Neighborhood Assistance Act proposal was facilitated by Matt Hellman, Vernon’s Social Services Director, and brought forward to the Town Council by Mayor Champagne. The Council unanimously approved the request after a public hearing.
“The Neighborhood Assistance Act gives businesses an opportunity to make monetary contributions to worthy non-profits and then receive a generous tax credit,” Hellman said. “The program is good for everybody involved.”
The Vernon Social Services Department locally coordinates the Neighborhood Assistance Act application for non-profits.
For more information about Opportunity Works Connecticut, please visit: https://www.owct.org/
For more information about the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program, please visit: https://portal.ct.gov/DRS/Credit-Programs/Neighborhood-Assistance/Neighborhood-Assistance-Act-Tax-Credit-Program