Our Projects & Collaborations
OUR STORIES
It Takes A Community
2014-2018
AROC was honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with the Francis Marion Ranger District, working in conjunction with Janna Dupre, Deputy Director of the Sewee Visitors Center. Our agreement commenced in 2014 through September 30, 2016. The Forest Service contributed a total of $11,680 to AROC. Through Janna's generous efforts and the Forest Service's 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, AROC was elated to learn, that our agreement was extended until June 30, 2019. Unfortunately, no funding came with that, however or endeavor to hire, employ, train and expose young people to the possibilities of what the Forest Service had to offer, as the world's largest natural resources agency, what it does. it provided the young people, a view unto a world they might not have seen otherwise, and what opportunities may await 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 12 in school students 7 enrolled in colleges,4 assured employed and 1 established his own landscaping business.
The photos below are the students that Janna and Michelle took along the way of the summer YCC's journey of It Takes a Village. We accomplished our statement of mutual benefits for our youths to be able to create their resumes of their first work experience as a federal entity the USDA Francis Marion National Forest Service and AROC made a difference in the lives of in-school youths for the greater good. Today, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of our in-school youth, out of school young adults to establish gainful employment, and build their resumes with first experience was a federal entity the USDA Francis Maron National Forest Service and making a difference in the lives of in school youths.
2023 Collaboration Project
Youth Community Day
Senior Handicap Ramp Project
Contacts
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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.
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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