Posted on Jan.22.2024August 20, 2024

Community Spotlight: The River Center: Strengthening Our Community, One Family at a Time

Pictured:
Top – Mini Explorers in Oak Park, Adventure Tabletop Gaming for Middle Schoolers
Left – Mini Explorers with Susie
Bottom – Families Forests and Farms in Troy, Volunteers

The River Center: Strengthening Our Community, One Family at a Time

Being a community hospital means building strong bonds with our community partners. We are happy to recognize the incredible contributions the River Center has made to the place we call home. As we step into the new year, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the incredible work being done by The River Center and how it continues to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families across the Eastern Monadnock Region.

Their Mission and Your Needs:

Since its inception in the 1990s, The River Center has evolved to become a designated Family Resource Center of Quality (FRC-Q). The River Center believes everyone deserves to thrive. That’s why they provide parent education, family support, and community connections in a welcoming environment. They understand the challenges and changing needs of our community, and their programs and services are designed to address them head-on.

Building Strong Families:

Everyone from Newborns to Grandparents and Households of One
Connection is a major concern for families today and The River Center is addressing that need in many ways. They help individuals grow, learn, and connect.
They offer a wide range of programs to support families at every stage. From family support, early home support, and parent and caregiver assistance, to youth programs, kinship support, financial coaching, tax preparation, and the valuable FACT book – the center is a wellspring of resources tailored to our community’s needs. Last year The River Center helped 300 families maximize their tax return.

Success Stories: Making a Difference, One Family at a Time

The impact of The River Center is best highlighted through stories like Melissa French’s, who has accessed their resources for over a decade “The River Center has been there for me every step of the way,” she says. “They’ve helped me with everything from fuel assistance to taxes. They truly make a difference in people’s lives.” From the Baby and Me group to financial coaching, Melissa attests to the profound impact the center has had on her life. Her words resonate: “When someone has a problem, I tell them to call The River Center; they can help.”

Upcoming Events:

Here are just a few highlights of programs at The River Center:

Free Tax Assistance

If your household income is approximately $64,000 or less, you may qualify for free tax preparation and e-filing services through the IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Certified volunteers are trained to maximize tax credits, including earned income and child tax credits, and ensure that you receive the largest refund possible. The VITA volunteers are certified by the IRS and undergo a quality review process to ensure accuracy. They are also trained as money coaches to help you make sense of your finances. The program runs from the end of January to mid-April each year. Call 603-924-6800 ext. 30 today to check if you qualify or set up an appointment. Don’t pay for tax preparation services when you can have it done for free and keep more money in your pocket.
In 2023 20% more tax returns were filed than 2022.

Junior Creatives

A MAXT Maker Space collaboration for curious middle schoolers to express creativity and strengthen social skills. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.
Kinship Potluck
Non-parent caregivers meet once a month for support and connection. Call 603-924-6800 to register.
In 2023 the Kinship Navigation program doubled.

Mini Explorers

Introducing young children to the wonders of the outdoors. This very popular program allows families with young children to learn more about places right in the area, introduces the concept of play, and allows parents to let their kids get messy in a safe environment. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.
In 2023 75 people registered for one program.

Parenting Book Club

Discuss “Confident Parents, Remarkable Kids” in February. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.

Make a Difference Today: Strengthening Our Community Together

Visit their website, donate, volunteer, or simply share this information with your friends. The #1 referral for their programs is word of mouth.
Remember, when you don’t know where else to go, call The River Center. They’re here for you.