

Free Eye Exam Project 2020
Eyeglass World Collaborated with AROC to provide free eye exams and 1 compliment eyeglass to the following low-income individual's..


Youth & Family Health Fest
St. James-Santee Family Health Center


It Takes A Village
Partnership Collaboration
Partnership/collaboration with the USDA Francis Marion National Forest Service Ranger District, working in conjunction with Janna Dupre, Deputy Director of the Sewee Visitor’s Center. This Agreement commenced in 2014 through September 30, 2016. Whereas the USDA contributed a total of $11,680 to AROC. Through that generous contribution we were able to hire in school youths, transform their lives, and put them on the road to a positive and rewarding future. In 2016 we were elated to learn that our agreement was extended until June 30, 2019. Unfortunately, no funding came with that through personal contributions we were able to offer what a Natural Resource agency does. Providing these young people, a view unto a world they might not see otherwise, and what opportunities may awaits them, as the future leaders of tomorrow, such as a Forester, hydrologist, Soil Scientist, Recreation leader, and the endless opportunities, in the world of fishers, Botanist, and finally, the number of youths we served in our partnership collaboration from 2014-2015 was 12 in-school youths from Charleston, Berkeley Counties that gained valuable work experience and of the 19 in-school youths. All 19 graduated from high school, 8 enrolled in colleges, 2 entered the military, 8 employed and 1 has his own landscaping business.










Youth & Family Health Fest


East Cooper Community Outreach, (ECCO)


Youth Community Service
HOPE Project
Elderly Handicap Ramp install 2023
Elderly Handicap Ramp installation
































Youth & Family Health Fest


East Cooper Community Outreach, (ECCO)


Youth Community Service
HOPE Project
Elderly Handicap Ramp install 2023
Elderly Handicap Ramp installation














































It Takes A Team
Contacts
info@myaroc.org
services@myaroc.org
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(843) 437-7040
AROC 2025
FAITH-BASED INITIATIVE
AROC is excited to announce a series of FREE faith-based initiatives aimed at empowering it's leaders in our communities in the states of South Carolina and North Carolina and beyond. These sessions, "The Keys to the Kingdom," will provide valuable insights and resources to help navigate these challenging times. We encourage all interested participants to take advantage of this FREE unique informational opportunities to grow and strengthen their leadership endeavor's.
Please fill out the RSVP form as soon as possible to secure your spot, as space may be limited. Join us in this meaningful journey of faith and leadership and empowerment, and let's come together for such a time as this. Your participation is vital!
These meetings will be via Microsoft Teams, you can attend from the comfort of your home.
"As your host, "I will not let you be uninformed" where providing knowledge is important to avoid misunderstanding. But provide resources and facts... Knowledge is POWER for us as leaders of faith-based entities to serve the poor, sinners, and people in need, His disciples/students in our communities.
Shalom,
Bettye Simmons-Weeks AROC, Inc.
Meeting Update
The Keys To The Kingdom Meeting will be hosted on Microsoft Team's Platform. Please check your email for the
NEW LINK TO THE MEETING.
Fill Out All Required Fields Below...
Awendaw, SC — AROC is proud to announce its designation as an official Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)program sponsor with appointments beginning in early 2025. This collaboration will provide free tax filing services to qualifying residents in Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester counties. Now in its 5th year, the VITA program helps low- and moderate-income individuals and families maximize their tax refunds and improve their financial stability.
“We understand that tax season can be a stressful and uncertain time for many families, which is why we are proud to offer this essential service,” said Bettye Simmons-Weeks, Executive Director-Founder of Community Initiatives at AROC. “This program helps Tri-County residents’ access free tax assistance, maximize their financial benefits which ultimately empowers them to achieve greater financial stability for the long term.”
Free Tax Filing Services Available to Eligible Residents
Tri-County residents with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $60,000 or less may qualify for free tax preparation services. The VITA program aims to ensure that taxpayers claim all eligible credits and deductions, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC). These credits can significantly increase refunds and help families achieve long-term financial stability.
How to Access Free Tax Filing Assistance
Taxpayers can schedule an appointment at AROC's Resource Connection Centers, located in Awendaw and the Tri-County area. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The flexibility of both in-person and online options ensures residents can choose the filing method that best suits their needs.
Important Details for Tax Filers:
Appointments are required for in-person assistance
Tax filers must bring required documents (e.g., last year’s tax return, W-2/1099 forms, Social Security numbers for dependents, etc.)
Only the filer or those filing jointly can attend the appointment VITA services are for current year filings only
Volunteer Opportunities
The VITA program also relies on community volunteers to help provide this valuable service. Volunteers are needed for various roles, from assisting clients directly to supporting behind the scenes. Those interested in giving back to their community can learn more and sign up by visiting the VITA website for additional information.
How to Get Started: To schedule an appointment or learn more about the free VITA tax preparation service, please contact the following Resource Connection Centers:
Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester County: 843-437-7040
For more information and a complete list of required documents, AROC is proud to offer accessible, professional tax assistance to help families in the Tri-County area navigate tax season with confidence and improve their financial well-being.
About AROC
Awendaw Regional Outreach Center, (AROC) has been a catalyst for measurable community transformation in Education, Financial Stability and Affordable Health Insurance through collaboration with The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services(CMS) We are Certified Application Counselor Designated Organization (CDO). We are here to provide you the consumers with Affordable Healthcare Insurance.
AROC has a proud history of developing community-wide initiatives, including partnering with dozens of local industries, nonprofit organizations, leading the creation of our community’s 211 Information and Referral Helpline and establishing the Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester Counties.
Awendaw Regional Outreach Center, Inc. Bettye Simmons-Weeks, Executive Director-Founder For Appointment Please call: (843) 437-7040