Council of the Southern Mountains
148 McDowell Street
Welch, WV 24801
ph: 304-436-6800
fax: 304-436-6803
alt: 304-436-6801
randalcs
Newsletter
COUNCIL OF THE
SOUTHERN MOUNTAINS
NEWSLETTER
The “Head of the Dragon” Motorcycle Run Hugh Success
The Head of the Dragon roared in Southern West Virginia on September 15, 2018. Registration for the Motorcycle Ride was from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. at the Martha Moore Park in Welch, WV. Registration was free with donations requested. The event, sponsored by the Council of the Southern Mountains, arranged for Allen “Cathead” Johnston and his group to provide a flavor of mountain music for the riders until the 11:00 a.m. scheduled start. There were refreshments for sale during the registration period along with event t-shirts, hats, patches and stickers. There was also a display from the Southern West Virginia Tourism group and the local Chamber of Commerce. Gourmet coffee was available from Community Crossings. Randal Johnson, Executive Director of the Council of the Southern Mountains, event sponsor, stated that, “The event also sponsored Childhood Cancer Awareness by selling balloons for one dollar with all the proceeds going to the West Virginia Kids Cancer Crusaders, which remains in the State. The balloons were released at the start of the ride. Johnson went on to say that, “This year’s event went through Coalwood, WV, home of the Rocket Boys. We are striving to increase awareness of the Rocket Boys birthplace and the movie “October Sky” which captures the spirit of McDowell County youth who dreamed of launching rockets into space and made those dreams come true. There is much to be proud of in McDowell County and we would love to revive the successful Coalwood Festival which attracted as many as 25,000 visitors before it was moved.” He went on to say, “We must be proactive in
highlighting the many positive aspects of this area as tourism is growing. It is time for action, not talk.” The event joined the Bradshaw Fall Festival that day so riders enjoyed the hospitality of good Southern West Virginia folks. The town worked hard to combine the festival with the Head of the Dragon event to welcome motorcycle riders. The ride then proceeded to War, WV, the southernmost town in West Virginia and then across Elkhorn Mountain. Johnson stated, “This part of the ride introduced participants to one of the most amazing and challenging roads in the Appalachian Mountains. This ride is 91 miles of scenic beauty and spectacular country roads.” He stated, “The whole County is excited about the event and being part of the Dragon series of motorcycle rides. One local lodging facility, Eva’s House, donated an overnight stay for the event, which was won by a couple from Florida. Charles Lambert of the VFW Post in Iaeger, WV was instrumental in the planning and implementation of the annual motorcycle ride.”Johnson finished by saying, “The Head of the Dragon motorcycle ride provides the diversity of economic initiatives that is needed in our area. We pumped thousands of dollars into the local economy and we have had hundreds of inquiries from riders all over the United States. There is hope for the future.”
FGP/RSVPThese two programs are operating according to grant guidelines. We are conducting monthly Budget/Grant Compliance meetings to ensure everything is going as required.
Fitness Center
There have been some inquiries of late about why we are not open in the evenings. I inform people that we were open for many years until 7:30 p.m. but due to lack of attendance and memberships, we had to reduce hours. This is a subject that may need discussion at our next Board meeting.
Community Services Block Grant Program
The staff are working toward providing gifts for eligible children this coming Christmas. Christmas will be here before you know it! Heather Mullins, Director of Community Services, is cross training in the Business Office with Brenda Winfrey, Director of Finance. One of our goals is to have employees knowledgeable of other jobs in case of emergencies.
Bill Pay/MoneyGram Service
This program is busy at the first of each month as consumers come to pay their bills at reasonable prices and without traveling great distances. It is not a big “money maker” but it is a great benefit for those we serve. Tammi Ferrell leads this service and the staff just completed their annual financial training as required.
Title XIX Waiver for Intellectually Developmentally Disabled
We closely monitor the monthly revenue and expenditures for this program. It is our largest program with over $700,000 billed annually. The staff have been struggling at the office with no air conditioning so we bought a portable unit, which helps a little. As a reminder, as a courtesy to our RSVP Director, her office is also located at the Bluefield site.
Board of Directors Membership Vacancies
The E.D. submitted two names for the Board to consider for vacancies on the Board of Directors. According to our By-Laws, I must send out notices of vacancies to designated area organizations requesting democratically elected representatives. Because of those notices, two possible members were suggested. The first is Kyler Wilson of Welch, WV. Mr. Wilson is employed with Community Crossings located in the old Welch High School building. Kyler has spent most of his life on the mission field, with the last 16 years in McDowell County. He now is working as the Operations Manager, and facilitates men's basketball. He also is a volunteer firefighter for the Welch Fire Department.Little Sparrow Ministries, Inc. is a not-for-profit agency located in Iaeger, WV. The following is from the letter notifying us that Ms. Brown had been elected to serve, based upon approval by the CSM Board of Directors:Mrs. Diane Brown was democratically elected to represent the residents of the county in which we serve by the Little Sparrow Ministries of Iaeger, WV.Mrs. Brown started coming to West Virginia in 1997 with Kentucky Coalmine Mission and Appalachian Lights Ministries. She would come in to the area and deliver food, clothes, hygiene supplies, and cleaning supplies. The groups would stay in churches or in their cars overnight and then travel out into the hollows meeting the people and building rapport. She did this until she moved to West Virginia in 2005. She then began working with Joseph Webb through Hands of Hope continuing ministering to the impoverished by continuing to go out into the hollows and building on that rapport she started in 1997. Then in June 2012, she founded Little Sparrow Ministries, Inc.We believe the poverty in the Appalachian Mountains of Southern West Virginia is devastating. Changes in Mining technology have contributed to an already suffering economy. There is little money for food, medicine, water, and electricity. Due to lives of extreme hardship, many people suffer from low self-esteem and feel there is no hope for the future. Therefore, the purpose and mission of LSM is to spread the love and hope found in Jesus Christ by helping others in this troubled area. We carry the message of the Gospel as we work to help meet the needs of the people. We are a group of committed servants of God working to collect and distribute food, clothing, supplies, and some home repairs as we reach out to these families. LSM tries to provide inspiration and direction to individuals, groups, and churches looking to become more involved in the mission field. We also participate with several other mission teams in several states including North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Even with all the support provided from LSM and the teams and churches, daily there are children in McDowell County and the surrounding counties going hungry, and the elderly people making a choice between buying food and paying utilities or purchasing much needed medication. So, LSM encourages and strengthens relationships with families in crisis. Families are visited in their homes, and children are given opportunities to smile. It is here you can witness the hands and feet of God working in the hills and hollows of Southern West Virginia. In Luke 4:18-19, it says, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” LSM tries to do this daily for the citizens of Mc Dowell County, West Virginia. We believe that IF YOU WANT TO SEE GOD, WALK AMONG THE BROKEN AND BEATEN, THE UNATTRACTIVE AND FORGOTTEN-THERE YOU WILL SEE HIM.The Board of LSM feels that Mrs. Brown would be a valued member for your Board of Directors because she truly has a heart and love for the people of West Virginia. She has contacts and information that could benefit both agencies in supporting the impoverished of McDowell County.
RIGHT FROM THE START
We are in discussion with representative from the Right From The Start program, a service for pregnant mothers and newborns up to one year of age who are at risk due to their socio-economic status. We have lined up what we hope is a reliable nurse and we will allow her to use one or our vehicles to visit families to help reduce her costs. This is a vital service for our community and we will keep the Board and community informed.
McDowell County Federal Credit Union
Council of the Southern Mountains Receives Credit Union Awards for 50 Years of Service
Danita Hiley, Senior Field Consultant of the WV Credit Union League presented the Gold Anniversary Award to Heather Mullins, CSM McDowell County Federal Credit Union Director.
The McDowell County Federal Credit Union, during its annual audit was recognized for 50 years of continuous service to the residents of southern West Virginia. Two awards were presented from the President of the Credit Union National Association and the President of the West Virginia Credit Union League. The awards stated, “On behalf of all members of the Organized Credit Union Movement, the WV Credit Union League proudly presents the Gold Anniversary Award. Through this award, public recognition is given to the loyal and dedicated members of the Credit Union who, over a period of 50 years, have made this special occasion possible. The achievement of half a century of Credit Union service brings with it a challenge to continue to render the high standards of membership services, which have been established.” The McDowell County Federal Credit Union was founded in 1968 and operates under the auspices of the Council of the Southern Mountains. The savings institution is headquartered in Welch, West Virginia at the central offices of CSM. The McDowell County Federal Credit Union is a federally chartered and federally insured credit union, operating within the regulations of the National Credit Union Association (NCUA) and being insured through the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF). The McDowell County Federal Credit Union services members through the service area of southern West Virginia. Based on its asset size and net worth ratio, McDowell County Federal Credit Union is classified as a “well capitalized” small credit union. McDowell County Federal Credit Union offers competitive deposit dividends for consumers and affordable loans to its members. Heather Mullins, Director of Community Services at the Council of the Southern Mountains serves as the Director of the Credit Union with Lyvonne Dyer, a Foster Grandparent at the Council, being the President of the Board of Directors. For those interested in joining the Credit Union, contact Heather Mullins or Randal Johnson at 304-436-6800.
Senior Companion Program
Senior Companion ProgramSenior Companions are volunteers age 55 and over who make a difference by providing assistance and friendship to adults who have difficulty with daily living tasks, such as shopping or paying bills. We help these adults remain independent in their homes instead of having to move to more costly institutional care. Senior Companions give families or professional caregivers a much-needed time off from their duties, run errands, and often provide friendship for their clients. Volunteers receive pre-service orientation, training from the organization where they serve, supplemental insurance while on duty, and may qualify to earn a tax-free hourly stipend by working 15-40 hours weekly. The Council of the Southern Mountains operates the largest Senior Companion Station in West Virginia. For information about becoming a Senior Companion, contact Gail Churchwell at the CSM Bluefield Office at 304-327-5305.
CSM AND FREE TAX RETURN PREPARATION
The Council of the Southern Mountains conducts annually the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (V.I.T.A) program has resulted in thousands of southern West Virginia families being assisted with millions of dollars in State and Federal returns being generated for local tax payers. This is a tremendous asset to our communityand the staff are certified by the Internal Revenue Service. All returns area filed electronically. Tax payers report they have their refunds just as fast as any other way they have filed in the past and all of this is without charge to those families. The number of people served and the amount of the refunds sets a record for this social service agency as in a recent visit by an Internal Revenue Service representative, it was related that the agency is still third in the State of West Virginia in the number of returns and financial impact. The latest figures on the average cost of a professional income tax preparer to handle a typical tax return was $273. This includes an itemized Form 1040 with Schedule A and a state tax return, according to the National Society of Accountants. As a result, the Council of the Southern Mountains saved area residents and average of over $170,000 in tax preparation charges for the last five years. This money goes directly back into the local economy and helps people during this economically distressed time.The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (V.I.T.A.) program is an Internal Revenue Service approved program designed to help low and moderate-income taxpayers complete their annual tax returns at no cost. The concept is to provide local taxpayers with free tax return preparation in an effort to provide a valuable community service. The program has grown over the years from a small group to what is now a nationwide program that serves thousands of taxpayers.Every year, beginning in December and continuing until mid-January, certified volunteers receive training from the IRS to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. Consumers are not charged fees for this service. VITA sites generally assist people who make $55,000 or less or are eligible for Earned Income Tax Credits or other low income tax benefits.For help next year with your taxes, contact CSM at 304-436-6800.The purpose of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program is to supplement and expand the ongoing work of local social service organizations, both non-profit and governmental, to provide shelter, food and supportive services to individuals and families who have economic emergencies. Accordingly, EFSP funding is open to all organizations helping hungry and homeless people, as well as organizations that support those at risk of becoming hungry or homeless due to economic hardships.
Emergency Food and Shelter Program
Emergency Food & Shelter Program The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) has again been awarded to CSM. This service is a federally-funded program administrated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Unlike FEMA’s disaster assistance programs authorized under the Stafford Act, EFSP is authorized by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act of 1987 (PL 100-77). Implementation of the EFSP is not contingent on a Presidential disaster declaration, and funds are not to be used to provide emergency assistance for circumstances that are the immediate result of a disaster situation.CSM collaborates with two other local agencies and divides the monetary award equally among all three partners. The other two entities are Catholic Charities and S.H.E.D.The CSM Executive Director is the local chairperson for the program. For more information or to seek assistance, contact Latonia Foster or Randal Johnson at 304-436-6800.
No Heat Emergency Program
No Heat (and, if eligible, No Air Conditioning if medically necessary) Emergency ProgramApplications are being accepted for the No Heat Emergency Program program which aids households at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines in need of emergency heat. This may be the repair or replacement of malfunctioning or non-operable heating units or installation of new systems. Air conditioning units may also be installed if there is a medical necessity. Applicant's homes primary heating system must have one of the following criteria to receive services:Have a non-operable or severely malfunctioning and/or unsafe heating system potentially endangering the household’s health and/or well-being.Is using portable heating devices such as electric and kerosene space heaters as a primary source of heat.Is using unvented gas/propane space heaters as a primary source of heat.Is using an unsafe fireplace or solid fuel. Have a fireplace or stove, but do not have access to, or the means to purchase solid fuel.Is using any type of gas fired cooking appliance as a heating source.If dwelling has been previously weatherized and the furnace has quit working after the warranty period, the home is still eligible for NHEP services.
To apply for the No Heat Emergency Program, please call the Council of the Southern Mountains so an application may be mailed to you or come by the office and you will be assisted with the application process. Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the telephone number is 304-436-6800. For after hours emergencies, call Randal Johnson at 304-887-3069.
END MAY, 2018 Newsletter
FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM
The agency recognizes our Board Vice President and Foster Grandparent, Claudia Via, for outstanding dedication to the special needs children served by CSM. The Program is gearing up for another school year of 60 Foster Grandparents serving in seven counties.
RETIRED AND SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
RSVP continues to serve four counties with 900 volunteers in Neighborhood Watch Groups, calls to seniors and disabled Veterans.
BOARD MEMBERS TO ATTEND NATIONAL CONFERENCE
Board President Bettina Premo and Treasurer April Mounts will be attending the national Community Action Partnership Conference in Philadelphia from August 29 -September 2. We look forward to hearing about the trip.
CSM RECEIVES AWARD FOR V.I.T.A.
The internal Revenue Service pRESENTED CSM with an award for innovative services for the income tax assistance program. The Community Involvement Award was made during the first ever NATIONAL webinar conducted by the IRS on April 26, 2017. The national recognition was for “support, dedication and commitment to building stronger communities through the Volunteer Return Preparation Program.
Title XIX Waiver Program Review
The largest CSM program, Title XIX Waiver, was reviewed in July of this year for certification. The review was EXCELLENT with no major findings that might have resulted in "paybacks.”
Congratulations Waiver staff!
Youth Exposure Series Successful
The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) staff conducted the annual summer program for eligible youth. The staff helped young people experience positive community events to help them have the experiences most children have and equal the “playing field” for our kids. The group went to the Clay Center in Charleston, a water park, zoo, semi-pro baseball game and the WV State Fair. Great Work CSGB!
WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The agency is working hard to help this struggling program succeed. Four completions are on schedule for August and that will leave two needed to meet the production quota by September 30, 2017.
BOARD MEMBER RECOGNITION
CSM recognizes Tom Morsi for this tremendous work in developing the McDowell County Youth Soccer League. Also, Ellen Valentine is commended for outstanding work as a Foster Grandparent.
The Family Day Care Feeding Program needs referrals.
The Mature Workers serving CSM are working on reduced hours due to funding cuts.
The Bill Pay Service continues to grow. This is a needed service. Try it!
New Project
I have been working with UniCare, a managed care health organization in West Virginia, in order to fund possible needs of people with disabilities as identified by being on Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Various ideas are being discussed such as building ramps and other unfunded specialized needs. I will keep the Board informed of the progress on this project.
Experience Works
A program we have had at the agency for several years is being taken over by another agency and there may be changes in the near future. We have three workers, Garnet Edwards, Brenda Kelsor and Shirley Heath. Discussions have been to reduce their hours down from 20 per week and even to reducing the number of trainees. There are a total of 13 in McDowell County place at various organizations. I will keep the Board informed as these staff are very useful to our agency and community. ve economic and social self-sufficiency,” an effort the Council has been at for more than 50 years.
A message from the CSM Board President, Bettina Premo
Life is a journey and the purposeful life makes it an exciting, worthwhile journey. To the staff and stakeholders of the Council of the Southern Mountains, please always stop and listen to sounds like those Barbara Hall related to above.
First, LOOK. Always be observant of opportunities to help others and empathize with their situation. The old adage of, “Don’t judge someone until you walk a mile in their shoes,” still holds true. Be observant, be mindful, and be on the outlook for innovative and unique ways to meet the challenges of those served by CSM.
Next, LISTEN. Be sure you hear the cries of little children and the elderly for their exclamations are often low in volume and difficult to discern. Often the voices of the downtrodden and forgotten are lost in the multitude of sounds in a modern complex society. We must listen for the whispers and the sounds of despair so we can create symphonies of hope.
Now, one must, CHOOSE. Everyone must select their path in life so choose right over wrong. Choose to help instead of criticize and choose to provide honor and self-reliance to those we serve for there is no greater human need than that of dignity.
Finally, and most importantly, ACT. Love without works provides no desire to achieve higher standards and levels of self- attainment. Act in a way that you want others to act toward you and we will all live in a better world.
I would like to say that I hope everyone will see the Council of the Southern Mountains for the quality of work they do daily to meet the needs of the community, and for their ability to develop needed programs and services for those we are fortunate enough to serve.
Thank you for allowing me to serve as President of the Board of Directors.
Thank you!
BettinaPremo
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Randal Johnson
It's not enough that we do our best; sometimes we have to do what's required.
It is said that adverse situations do not mold character, they expose it. The character of those we rely upon is defined daily by their thoughts, words and actions. It must always be known that our thoughts guide our outward behaviors for in order for a deed to be accomplished it must first be an aspiration. That aspiration becomes reality only through dedication to our purpose and then our best endeavors put forth for the ultimate attainment of our dream.
It isn’t easy always doing what is required. In order for us to grow we have to take on new challenges and exert our will to accomplish new rewards. Often, unfortunately, we miss our goals but the failure is not in the lack of success in every effort we make but simply in our giving up or not trying at all. That is the cause for blame; not reaching for new vistas to help those we are charged to serve.
It is difficult to expose one’s self to the possibilities of failure. It is hard to hear the disparaging comments from others when one knows the self-sacrifice made and how our best effort was attempted, notwithstanding the long hours of work and worry that no one ever sees. As we have all heard, sometimes our best is not good enough. That may be true but the alternative is worse. By not giving our best we fail our fellow citizens along our life’s journey. Facing obstacles is no easy task but facing ourselves knowing that we failed our neighbors because we would not do what was required is far worse. For if we do not try our best to achieve our respective destinies, then and only then, do we fail. We must always do what is required and stay the course.
CSM CONSUMER SATISFACTION
SURVEY RESULTS - 2016
CSM Consumer Satisfaction Survey 2016 | Strongly Agree | Agree | Neutral | Disagree | Strongly Disagree | Not Applicable |
I was treated with kindness and respect when I came to and/or called the agency. | 701 | 57 | 6 | 1 | 4 | 22 |
The staff were willing to help me. | 693 | 55 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 29 |
Staff referred me to another agency if the Council could not help my request. | 346 | 55 | 17 | 3 | 2 | 295 |
I was waited on promptly and did not have to wait too long to receive services. | 656 | 65 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 53 |
My privacy was honored. | 675 | 55 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 37 |
The services or assistance I received met my needs. | 654 | 67 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 40 |
The agency or services are conveniently located. | 655 | 67 | 5 | 1 | 2 | 40 |
The building was neat and clean when I visited. | 643 | 70 | 9 | 1 | 1 | 52 |
I would recommend the agency to others. | 699 | 61 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
Overall, I am satisfied with the services I received. | 709 | 58 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
cSM WEBSITES/SOCIAL MEDIA
In order to help CSM consumers attain services, four websites are maintained. The first is the agency website describing available programs: councilofthesouthernmountains.com. Next is our initiative to help low-income families obtain and maintain healthy homes at: healthyhabitathelp.com. Third is the economic development component to encourage tourism at: visitmcdowellcountwv.com. The newest addition is the website still under development for the “Head of the Dragon” motorcycle run for diversification of the local economy: headofthedragonwv.com.
Please visit these sites and join us on Facebook at Council of the Southern Mountains and Visit McDowell County.
CSM CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES/COMMUNITY SERVICES BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
Thanks to the CSBG staff, the agency provided Christmas presents and holiday refreshments to 350 McDowell County children. The CSBG staff raised money and participated in the Christmas Gift Project at the Greenbrier Resort in order to ensure many children in the County received nice presents for the holiday. Regina Sanders was instrumental in the planning and implementation of the Christmas Party, held December 17, 2016 with all the presents and food. The Board should be very proud of the Ms. Sanders and the CSBG staff of Heather Eldridge and Latonia Foster.
CSBG staff, again led by Ms. Sanders, just received a $1,000 award from Walmart for the CSM youth activities.
TOURISM INITIATIVE
The agency sponsored website: www.visitmcdowellcountywv.com has been updated thanks to Experience Works staff person Shirley Heath. Ms. Heath has worked to improve the web site in the effort of alternative economic development endeavors in McDowell County. The goal of this project is to show the positives of the County and offer potential visitors resources on lodging, food and local attractions. Ms. Heath obtained permission from anyone that provided music or information for the site. Please visit the web pages and let us know what you think.
The agency sponsored website: www.visitmcdowellcountywv.com has been updated thanks to Experience Works staff person Shirley Heath. Ms. Heath has worked to improve the web site in the effort of alternative economic development endeavors in McDowell County. The goal of this project is to show the positives of the County and offer potential visitors resources on lodging, food and local attractions. Ms. Heath obtained permission from anyone that provided music or information for the site. Please visit the web pages and let us know what you think.
Neighborhood Investment Program
The Clinical Director, Donna Turner, and I attended the Neighborhood Investment Program meeting in Charleston on May 9, 2018. THE NEIGHBORHOOD INVESTMENT PROGRAM (NIP) was established by the West Virginia Legislature in 1996 to increase charitable giving to local nonprofit organizations, thus increasing the capacity of such organizations to serve low-income persons in highly distressed neighborhoods. The program allows 501(c) 3 designated charitable organizations to apply for tax credit vouchers. These organizations then distribute the vouchers to businesses and individuals who contribute to the organizations. By donating to approved NIP organizations, contributors can support their communities and earn credits to reduce certain West Virginia taxes. The West Virginia Legislature sets aside $3 million annually in state tax credits for the NIP. To participate, a 501(c)3 organization must apply to the West Virginia Development Office. Applicants will be evaluated on a number of criteria before being approved by an advisory board. Approved organizations can use the credit as a tool for attracting donations from potential contributors. Businesses and individuals who contribute to NIP organizations are eligible to receive up to 50 percent of the contributed amount in the form of state tax credits. Donors may use the credits to reduce liability for the following West Virginia taxes: • Corporate Net Income Tax • Business Franchise Tax • Personal Income Tax.
This is a new initiative for the agency so we ask for the Board’s support.
Opioid Assistance Program
We will be discussing a possible new venture of offering the Fitness Center for recovering opioid abusers. Physical exercise is an excellent diversion for the effects of recovery and we hope that we can be a “leader” in the State with this initiative. As you know, WV is one of the leading States in this drug’s abuse and McDowell County routinely ranks first or second in overdose deaths. As we say, we have talked enough, it is time for action.
I will keep the Board informed as we progress on this possible program.
RIGHT FROM THE START
We are in discussion with representative from the Right From The Start program, a service for pregnant mothers and newborns up to one year of age who are at risk due to their socio-economic status. We have lined up what we hope is a reliable nurse and we will allow her to use one or our vehicles to visit families to help reduce her costs.
This is a vital service for our community and I will keep the Board informed.
McDowell County Federal Credit Union
Council of the Southern Mountains Receives Credit Union Awards for 50 Years of Service
Danita Hiley, Senior Field Consultant of the WV Credit Union League presents the Gold Anniversary Award to Heather Mullins, CSM McDowell County Federal Credit Union Director.
The McDowell County Federal Credit Union, during its annual audit was recognized for 50 years of continuous service to the residents of southern West Virginia. Two awards were presented from the President of the Credit Union National Association and the President of the West Virginia Credit Union League. The awards stated, “On behalf of all members of the Organized Credit Union Movement, the WV Credit Union League proudly presents the Gold Anniversary Award. Through this award, public recognition is given to the loyal and dedicated members of the Credit Union who, over a period of 50 years, have made this special occasion possible. The achievement of half a century of Credit Union service brings with it a challenge to continue to render the high standards of membership services, which have been established.”
The McDowell County Federal Credit Union was founded in 1968 and operates under the auspices of the Council of the Southern Mountains. The savings institution is headquartered in Welch, West Virginia at the central offices of CSM. The McDowell County Federal Credit Union is a federally chartered and federally insured credit union, operating within the regulations of the National Credit Union Association (NCUA) and being insured through the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF).
The McDowell County Federal Credit Union services members through the service area of southern
West Virginia. Based on its asset size and net worth ratio, McDowell County Federal Credit Union is classified as a “well capitalized” small credit union. McDowell County Federal Credit Union offers competitive deposit dividends for consumers and affordable loans to its members.
Heather Mullins, Director of Community Services at the Council of the Southern Mountains serves as the Director of the Credit Union with Lyvonne Dyer, a Foster Grandparent at the Council, being the President of the Board of Directors.
For those interested in joining the Credit Union, contact Heather Mullins or Randal Johnson at 304-436-6800.
Senior Companion Program
Senior Companions are volunteers age 55 and over who make a difference by providing assistance and friendship to adults who have difficulty with daily living tasks, such as shopping or paying bills. We help these adults remain independent in their homes instead of having to move to more costly institutional care. Senior Companions give families or professional caregivers a much-needed time off from their duties, run errands, and often provide friendship for their clients. Volunteers receive pre-service orientation, training from the organization where they serve, supplemental insurance while on duty, and may qualify to earn a tax-free hourly stipend by working 15-40 hours weekly. The Council of the Southern Mountains operates the largest Senior Companion Station in West Virginia.
For information about becoming a Senior Companion, contact Gail Churchwell at the CSM Bluefield Office at 304-327-5305.
SEE THE STATEWIDE CHART BELOW ON THE SIZES OF ALL SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAMS IN WV
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07/01/2017 - 04/27/2018 |
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Sta No | Station Name | Hours | Stipend | Car Reimb | Bus Reimb | Tot Reimb |
000019 | Barbour County Senior Center | 3765.50 | 9978.57 | 2273.00 | 0.00 | 2273.00 |
000021 | Brooke County Senior Center | 2578.00 | 6831.70 | 2873.00 | 0.00 | 2873.00 |
0-0028 | Clary Grove | 1170.00 | 3100.51 | 1654.00 | 0.00 | 1654.00 |
0-0029 | First Baptist Church Charleston | 3918.00 | 10382.70 | 1091.00 | 0.00 | 1091.00 |
000013 | Gilmer County Senior Center | 452.00 | 1197.80 | 92.50 | 0.00 | 92.50 |
000018 | Hospice Care Incorporation | 513.50 | 1360.79 | 296.00 | 0.00 | 296.00 |
000012 | Lewis County Senior Center | 1742.00 | 4616.31 | 491.50 | 0.00 | 491.50 |
000007 | Mc Dowell Council of Southern Mountains | 19246.00 | 49820.00 | 10793.00 | 0.00 | 10793.00 |
000015 | Mid Ohio Valley Regional Council | 6955.00 | 18430.75 | 2071.00 | 0.00 | 2071.00 |
000022 | Mid Ohio Valley Regional Council | 3523.00 | 9335.95 | 345.00 | 0.00 | 345.00 |
000017 | Raleigh County Senior Citizens | 4480.00 | 11872.00 | 1428.50 | 0.00 | 1428.50 |
000011 | Randolph County Senior Center | 4971.00 | 13173.15 | 6628.00 | 0.00 | 6628.00 |
000006 | Taylor County Senior Center | 1891.00 | 5011.15 | 920.50 | 0.00 | 920.50 |
000003 | Unity Morgantown | 5967.00 | 15812.55 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
000002 | Unity Place Parkersburg | 1661.00 | 4401.65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
000008 | Upshur County Senior Citizens | 6564.00 | 17394.61 | 2099.50 | 0.00 | 2099.50 |
000016 | Webster County Senior Citizens | 6078.00 | 16106.70 | 4458.50 | 0.00 | 4458.50 |
000001 | Wood County Senior Citizens | 5711.50 | 15135.48 | 3899.50 | 0.00 | 3899.50 |
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CSM AND FREE TAX RETURN PREPARATION
The Council of the Southern Mountains conducts annually the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (V.I.T.A) program has resulted in thousands of southern West Virginia families being assisted with millions of dollars in State and Federal returns being generated for local tax payers. This is a tremendous asset to our communityand the staff are certified by the Internal Revenue Service. All returns area filed electronically. Tax payers report they have their refunds just as fast as any other way they have filed in the past and all of this is without charge to those families. The number of people served and the amount of the refunds sets a record for this social service agency as in a recent visit by an Internal Revenue Service representative, it was related that the agency is still third in the State of West Virginia in the number of returns and financial impact.
The latest figures on the average cost of a professional income tax preparer to handle a typical tax return was $273. This includes an itemized Form 1040 with Schedule A and a state tax return, according to the National Society of Accountants. As a result, the Council of the Southern Mountains saved area residents and average of over $170,000 in tax preparation charges for the last five years. This money goes directly back into the local economy and helps people during this economically distressed time.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (V.I.T.A.) program is an Internal Revenue Service approved program designed to help low and moderate-income taxpayers complete their annual tax returns at no cost. The concept is to provide local taxpayers with free tax return preparation in an effort to provide a valuable community service. The program has grown over the years from a small group to what is now a nationwide program that serves thousands of taxpayers.
Every year, beginning in December and continuing until mid-January, certified volunteers receive training from the IRS to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. Consumers are not charged fees for this service. VITA sites generally assist people who make $55,000 or less or are eligible for Earned Income Tax Credits or other low income tax benefits.
For help next year with your taxes, contact CSM at 304-436-6800.
The purpose of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program is to supplement and expand the ongoing work of local social service organizations, both non-profit and governmental, to provide shelter, food and supportive services to individuals and families who have economic emergencies. Accordingly, EFSP funding is open to all organizations helping hungry and homeless people, as well as organizations that support those at risk of becoming hungry or homeless due to economic hardships.
Emergency Food & Shelter Program
The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) has again been awarded to CSM. This service is a federally-funded program administrated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Unlike FEMA’s disaster assistance programs authorized under the Stafford Act, EFSP is authorized by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act of 1987 (PL 100-77). Implementation of the EFSP is not contingent on a Presidential disaster declaration, and funds are not to be used to provide emergency assistance for circumstances that are the immediate result of a disaster situation.
CSM collaborates with two other local agencies and divides the monetary award equally among all three partners. The other two entities are Catholic Charities and S.H.E.D.
The CSM Executive Director is the local chairperson for the program. For more information or to seek assistance, contact Latonia Foster or Randal Johnson at 304-436-6800.
No Heat (and, if eligible, No Air Conditioning if medically necessary) Emergency Program
Applications are being accepted for the No Heat Emergency Program program which aids households at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines in need of emergency heat. This may be the repair or replacement of malfunctioning or non-operable heating units or installation of new systems. Air conditioning units may also be installed if there is a medical necessity.
Applicant's homes primary heating system must have one of the following criteria to receive services:
Have a non-operable or severely malfunctioning and/or unsafe heating system potentially endangering the household’s health and/or well-being.
Is using portable heating devices such as electric and kerosene space heaters as a primary source of heat.
Is using unvented gas/propane space heaters as a primary source of heat.
Is using an unsafe fireplace or solid fuel. Have a fireplace or stove, but do not have access to, or the means to purchase solid fuel.
Is using any type of gas fired cooking appliance as a heating source.
If dwelling has been previously weatherized and the furnace has quit working after the warranty period, the home is still eligible for NHEP services.
COUNCIL OF THE SOUTHERN MOUNTAINS
2018 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE
The Main Street of Bradshaw, WV was lined with scores of motorcycles for the Head of the Dragon 2018 Motorcycle Ride. The town provided live entertainment, vendors, and great hospitality.
Head of the Dragon Motorcycle Event Huge Success
The Head of the Dragon roared in Southern West Virginia on September 15, 2018. Registration for the Motorcycle Ride was from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. at the Martha Moore Park in Welch, WV. Registration was free with donations requested.
The event, sponsored by the Council of the Southern Mountains, arranged for Allen “Cathead” Johnston and his group to provide a flavor of mountain music for the riders until the 11:00 a.m. scheduled start. There were refreshments for sale during the registration period along with event t-shirts, hats, patches and stickers. There was also a display from the Southern West Virginia Tourism group and the local Chamber of Commerce. Gourmet coffee was available from Community Crossings. Randal Johnson, Executive Director of the Council of the Southern Mountains, event sponsor, stated that, “The event also sponsored Childhood Cancer Awareness by selling balloons for one dollar with all the proceeds going to the West Virginia Kids Cancer Crusaders, which remains in the State. The balloons were released at the start of the ride.
Johnson went on to say that, “This year’s event went through Coalwood, WV, home of the Rocket Boys. We are striving to increase awareness of the Rocket Boys birthplace and the movie “October Sky” which captures the spirit of McDowell County youth who dreamed of launching rockets into space and made those dreams come true. There is much to be proud of in McDowell County and we would love to revive the successful Coalwood Festival which attracted as many as 25,000 visitors before it was moved.” He went on to say, “We must be proactive in highlighting the many positive aspects of this area as tourism is growing. It is time for action, not talk.”
The event joined the Bradshaw Fall Festival that day so riders enjoyed the hospitality of good Southern West Virginia folks. The town worked hard to combine the festival with the Head of the Dragon event to welcome motorcycle riders.
The ride then proceeded to War, WV, the southernmost town in West Virginia and then across Elkhorn Mountain. Johnson stated, “This part of the ride introduced participants to one of the most amazing and challengingroads in the Appalachian Mountains. This ride is 91 miles of scenic beauty and spectacular country roads.” He stated, “The whole County is excited about the event and being part of the Dragon series of motorcycle rides. One local lodging facility, Eva’s House, donated an overnight stay for the event, which was won by a couple from Florida. Charles Lambert of the VFW Post in Iaeger, WV was instrumental in the planning and implementation of the annual motorcycle ride.”
Head of the Dragon Motorcycle Event Huge Success
The Head of the Dragon roared in Southern West Virginia on September 15, 2018. Registration for the Motorcycle Ride was from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. at the Martha Moore Park in Welch, WV. Registration was free with donations requested.
The event, sponsored by the Council of the Southern Mountains, arranged for Allen “Cathead” Johnston and his group to provide a flavor of mountain music for the riders until the 11:00 a.m. scheduled start. There were refreshments for sale during the registration period along with event t-shirts, hats, patches and stickers. There was also a display from the Southern West Virginia Tourism group and the local Chamber of Commerce. Gourmet coffee was available from Community Crossings. Randal Johnson, Executive Director of the Council of the Southern Mountains, event sponsor, stated that, “The event also sponsored Childhood Cancer Awareness by selling balloons for one dollar with all the proceeds going to the West Virginia Kids Cancer Crusaders, which remains in the State. The balloons were released at the start of the ride.
The Head of the Dragon roared in Southern West Virginia on September 15, 2018. Registration for the Motorcycle Ride was from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. at the Martha Moore Park in Welch, WV. Registration was free with donations requested.
The event, sponsored by the Council of the Southern Mountains, arranged for Allen “Cathead” Johnston and his group to provide a flavor of mountain music for the riders until the 11:00 a.m. scheduled start. There were refreshments for sale during the registration period along with event t-shirts, hats, patches and stickers. There was also a display from the Southern West Virginia Tourism group and the local Chamber of Commerce. Gourmet coffee was available from Community Crossings. Randal Johnson, Executive Director of the Council of the Southern Mountains, event sponsor, stated that, “The event also sponsored Childhood Cancer Awareness by selling balloons for one dollar with all the proceeds going to the West Virginia Kids Cancer Crusaders, which remains in the State. The balloons were released at the start of the ride.
Johnson went on to say that, “This year’s event went through Coalwood, WV, home of the Rocket Boys. We are striving to increase awareness of the Rocket Boys birthplace and the movie “October Sky” which captures the spirit of McDowell County youth who dreamed of launching rockets into space and made those dreams come true. There is much to be proud of in McDowell County and we would love to revive the successful Coalwood Festival which attracted as many as 25,000 visitors before it was moved.” He went on to say, “We must be proactive in
highlighting the many positive aspects of this area as tourism is growing. It is time for action, not talk.”
The event joined the Bradshaw Fall Festival that day so riders enjoyed the hospitality of good Southern West Virginia folks. The town worked hard to combine the festival with the Head of the Dragon event to welcome motorcycle riders.
The ride then proceeded to War, WV, the southernmost town in West Virginia and then across Elkhorn Mountain. Johnson stated, “This part of the ride introduced participants to one of the most amazing and challengingroads in the Appalachian Mountains. This ride is 91 miles of scenic beauty and spectacular country roads.” He stated, “The whole County is excited about the event and being part of the Dragon series of motorcycle rides. One local lodging facility, Eva’s House, donated an overnight stay for the event, which was won by a couple from Florida. Charles Lambert of the VFW Post in Iaeger, WV was instrumental in the planning and implementation of the annual motorcycle ride.”
148 McDowell Street
Welch, WV 24801
ph: 304-436-6800
fax: 304-436-6803
alt: 304-436-6801
randalcs