Spotlight on Your Funds

February 2026

Benefit Funds Help Eligible Members File for EITC

The Benefit Funds have long assisted 1199SEIU members in filing for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) by connecting them with free tax preparation services so that they receive the full refund to which they are entitled. This year, the Benefit Funds are connecting members with the NYC Free Tax Prep program, the Campaign for Working Families and the nonprofit educational program Ariva, all of which offer free tax preparation assistance through April 15 both in person at locations throughout New York City and online for convenient electronic filing (e-filing) from home. Tax preparation assistance is also available in Westchester County, Long Island and New Jersey through the IRS’ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Weekday, evening and weekend hours are available and, in some cases, so is walk-in service. For more information or to make an appointment, members should contact the programs directly:



Members may also visit the Benefit Funds website for additional information about free tax preparation in New York City, Westchester County, Long Island and New Jersey.

Career Pathways Training Program Graduates Are Ready to Deliver High-quality Care

Graduates of the Training and Employment Funds’ (TEF) Career Pathways Training (CPT) Program have the discipline, motivation and confidence to provide patients with high-quality care. Jadyn Rice, who is pursuing a Master of Social Work degree, feels confident about her ability to succeed in the workforce thanks to the CPT Program. “You can do anything you put your mind to,” she said. “And I think that’s the biggest thing I’m taking away from graduating—knowing that from here on, anything I set my mind to, I can accomplish.” Jadyn is grateful for the program’s preparing her for a career that allows her to help others. “Without TEF, I don’t know if I’d be sitting here telling you how interested I am in school, how much I love what I’m doing and how excited I am for my future," she said. “I’m excited to give back to the city I love.” 

 

For employers seeking fully prepared candidates who will immediately strengthen the healthcare workforce by providing the highest quality care, CPT Program graduates stand out as exceptional hires. If you have full-time job vacancies and wish to receive referrals of CPT graduates, please  submit the job posting online. For more information, visit the CPT Program website.

Child Care Corporation Begins WorkForce Orientation Sessions

The Child Care Corporation is holding orientation sessions through February 26 for its WorkForce (WF2) Program, which will run from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. The orientations provide an opportunity for members and their children to learn more about the program and connect with WF2, New York University and Queens College program staff. Most orientation sessions take place remotely via Zoom. Members who are interested in the 2026–2027 program can register beginning August 2026.


Formerly known as WorkForce 2000, WF2 is a year-round academic program designed to help children in grades 9 through 12 succeed in high school, prepare for college and explore career interests. The program provides leadership and professional development opportunities, along with academic coursework assistance through a New York City college, Monday through Friday during the summer and select Saturdays throughout the school year. Members can visit the WorkForce website for more information.

Check Out Our Podcast

Health Is the Key is dedicated to 1199SEIU members—healthcare workers who, all too often, put the health and well-being of others ahead of their own.

Meet Our Featured Member

Merlene Hardy from Northwell Health


Why did Merlene Hardy begin her health journey?

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1199SEIU Funds News is a monthly email produced by the 1199SEIU Funds. Copyright 2026.

For further information, contact the Communications Office at Communications@1199Funds.org.