Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Career Survival Week by Rohit Bhargava

Renowned marketing blogger Rohit Bhargava has put out a 5-part series called Career Survival Week. It's geared towards people who have recently lost their jobs and gives a basic outline that answers the question: What now? It's an interesting, practical read. Here are the five parts:
Parts 2 and 3 obviously lean towards new media ideas, which some people may be resistant to but let's face it - that's the way things are moving. If you do get involved with social media, make sure you do it wisely. Don't be like the so-called Cisco Fatty, who apparently lost a job offer via Twitter.

Parts 1, 4 and 5 can apply to everyone. Solid tips on accepting the job loss, taking steps forward and working towards success. Part 4 has some good suggestions on standing out from the crowd during the interview, including how to empower the interviewer to champion for you. Part 5 strikes a chord with me, as I spent years helping people start businesses. This is a great time to start a small business so long as you do it wisely. There are plenty of local resources to help you get started.

Bottom line: identify your goals, take these suggestions and get moving!

Friday, March 20, 2009

APS offering scholarships to college seniors

According to this Phoenix Business Journal, APS is offering scholarships to high school seniors enrolling at either a Maricopa County community college or ASU West/the New College at ASU. The scholarships target enrollment in specific programs, so be sure to read the full article for details.

Online applications are due March 27, so spread the word - quickly!

Monday, March 16, 2009

Free tax prep help from the IRS

March 21 is Super Saturday - an extra day of tax help for those who most need it. Taxpayers will have access to hundreds of venues - IRS offices and partner sites - across the country where they can get free tax assistance.

Super Saturday is designed particularly for those in difficult economic situations, those who may need assistance with prior year returns, those in the disabled community, or those who may not be aware of the availability of certain free services designed to help them.

Locations and hours of operation for Super Saturday are available here. The IRS web site also lists criteria for free tax preparation and advises taxpayer what to bring with them. People without computer access can call (800) 906-9887 to find a nearby IRS or partner office. IRS customer service telephone lines at (800) 829-1040, also will be available on Super Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to answer tax questions.

In the current volatile economic environment, with legislative changes affecting most taxpayers in one aspect or another, the IRS is also highlighting its free day-to-day services available to all taxpayers.

Photo credit Paul Keleher

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

S.H.E. Counts! 2009 Women's Day at the Legislature

S.H.E. COUNTS!

2009 WOMEN’S DAY AT THE LEGISLATURE


Fighting for Safety, Health, and Economic security
for every Arizona woman...with your help!

WHERE: Arizona State Legislature, Senate Lawn
1700 West Washington, Phoenix
WHEN: Thursday, March 19 from 9:30 am – 2:00 pm

DID YOU KNOW? The Arizona Legislature recently passed some of the largest budget cuts in state history. The impact of these cuts on women is devastating. The safety, health, and economic stability of Arizona women and their families are at tremendous risk! More devastating cuts are planned for the 2010 budget. Here are just some of the impacts for 2009:

SAFETY AT RISK
$2 million cut from domestic violence shelter- will mean hundreds of women seeking safety are again turned away.
• Many reports of child and elder abuse will no longer be investigated, placing thousands of children and seniors at risk of physical harm.
• Services for 4,000 abused children cut.
• Prevention work for 3,500 at-risk families ended.

HEALTH IN PERIL
• Health Care Group insurance for 20,000 ended.
• Community health center services for 5,529 needy suspended.
• Independent living and respite care for 580 elders ended.
• Services cut or eliminated for 6,500 disabled people.

ECONOMIC SECURITY JEOPARDIZED
• Short-term crisis for 1000 poor families cut.
• Homeless shelter for 1,100 families eliminated.
• Cash assistance reduced for 38,500 families on welfare.
• Child care eliminated for 20,000 children.

ACTION NEEDED IMMEDIATELY

Come and lend your voice! Show our policymakers that Arizona women stand up for one another. Speak out for the Safety Health and Economic security (S.H.E.) of Arizona Women. Let them know S.H.E. Counts!

See you March 19th!


Supported by the Arizona Foundation for Women, Fresh Start Women's Foundation, Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence, AWEE and the YWCA.