March is Women's History Month and a time to recognize the strength, leadership, and perseverance of women in our community and around the world. Many of the families we serve are led by women who are working hard every day, balancing jobs, school schedules, budgets, caregiving, and long to-do lists. This month is a reminder that your work, goals, and the steps you are taking matter. Whether you are building new skills, searching for a job, supporting your family, or planning for financial stability, Britepaths and the Financial Empowerment Center see the effort it takes, and we're here to support you along the way.
As tax season continues, if you or your family earned less than $69,000 in 2025, you may qualify for free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. VITA provides no-cost tax-filing assistance from IRS-certified volunteers. Trained volunteers help make sure your tax return is completed accurately, that you receive the maximum refund you are eligible for, and that you are screened for valuable credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit.
Do you owe taxes and feel unsure about how to pay what you owe? You may have options. Join us for a Tax Debt Relief Clinic to learn about possible solutions, including how to apply for an Offer in Compromise with the IRS and the Virginia Department of Taxation. An Offer in Compromise may allow eligible taxpayers to settle tax debt for less than the full amount owed.
During this workshop, we will walk through:
What an Offer in Compromise is
Who may qualify
How to apply with the IRS
How to apply with the Virginia Department of Taxation
If you are feeling overwhelmed by tax debt, this session is designed to help you understand your options and next steps.
The One Fairfax office has created a resource flyer to help community members find local support and services, available in English, Spanish, and Korean. Fairfax County shares that it is committed to being a welcoming community for everyone, whether you live, work, or spend time here. The County is devoted to protecting the rights of all residents, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, and to ensuring equal access to opportunity and community resources.
national reading month: visit the secret garden at britepaths
National Reading Month is celebrated every March to promote literacy, foster a love of reading, and honor Dr. Seuss's birthday on March 2. The Secret Garden at Britepaths is our in-office book nook where children and teens (18 and under) can choose free books to take home and build their own home libraries. We offer a wide range of new and like-new books from baby board books to young adult titles. Families and community members are welcome to visit by stopping by our office. Reading at home supports learning, creativity, and confidence, and we are glad to share books with the young readers in our community. All community members are welcome to walk in, stop by, and browse our shelves!
Spring is a time to freshen up your home, and it’s also a great time to freshen up your money. If things have felt a little scattered or stressful lately, you’re not alone. A few small steps can help you feel more organized and in control.
Clean Up Your Accounts
Do you have money spread across different banks or apps? When everything is in different spots, it can feel confusing.
You might consider:
Using one main bank for your checking and savings
Closing old bank accounts and apps you no longer use
Keeping things simple makes it easier to track your money and avoid surprises.
Declutter Your Debt
If you have multiple credit cards or loans with different due dates, it can feel overwhelming, especially when payments are due at different times.
Start small:
Write down each debt, the balance, the interest rate, and the due date
Try paying a little extra toward the debt with the highest interest rate
Review Your Income Expenses
Set aside time this month to take a quick look at your money:
What money is coming in?
What bills must be paid?
Is there anything leftover you can save?
You don’t have to fix everything at once. Just being aware of where your money goes is a powerful first step.
This financial tip was provided by Malee Turner of ReFrame Wealth.
Investment advisory services offered through ReFrame Wealth, LLC, a registered investment advisor with the Securities Exchange Commission. Not affiliated with Britepaths.
