Meridian EnVision Center: Off To A Great Start!

From IRS tax filing do's and don'ts tips, to dental care and hair braiding certification, Meridian's EnVision Center is a positive force in the community.

Since its designation in October of 2019 the EnVision Center has extended a welcoming reception to members of the community who were unaware of the services and events offered to benefit Meridian residents. The enhanced recognition of the services provided through partnerships with governmental and community organizations are a magnet and the EnVision Center wants Meridian residents to know that all are welcome.

Seeing a multitude of cars at the Center Envision Center, a resident wanted to know what was going on, and then wanted to participate but she didn't think that she would be welcome. Gretchen Luvene, leader of the center, assured her that the EnVision Center is there for all residents. "Unfortunately, people in underserved communities do not always feel they deserve a seat at the table; I want the community to know that we are here to serve them," said Luvene. "If we are not meeting their needs, we want residents to let us know and we'll adjust accordingly. We expect to make a positive impact in the community for a very long time."

Several activities are generating traction and response from the residents. The Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is a resource that helps taxpayers resolve issues with the IRS. In a recent informational session, TAS representatives discussed what to do and avoid when income tax filing and let the residents know that they are available whenever they need them.

A partnership with Mississippi Department of Health generated a free oral health clinic. Raven Lott expressed her gratitude for the event. "On behalf of parents in our community I would like to thank the Envision Center for doing this. My children and other residents were able to get dental screenings and have their teeth cleaned. I had no clue my son Hezzakiah needed braces. After the screening, we were able to book his appointment for his braces," said Lott.

Meridian Community College's Hair Braiding Certification Program has been the most unique collaboration to date. Sharon Lewis, cosmetologist/hair braiding Instructor, told a group of EnVision Center attendees how learning to braid hair correctly allowed her to become economically self-sufficient. She wanted to work, but she also wanted be home with her children. Hair braiding affords her the flexibility to do both. The cost of the certification program is $275. One EnVision Center participant will have the cost of her tuition funded by a local non-profit agency for the session that begins in April 2020.

From left: Jamie Davis, assistant hair braiding instructor and licensed stylist; Raven Lott, EnVision Center participant/Meridian Housing Authority resident; Sharon Lewis, hair braiding instructor and licensed stylist, and Laureta Chislom, lifelong learning coordinator, Meridian Community College From left: Melanie Overall, case advocate; Gretchen Luvene, Meridian EnVision Center lead; Cathy Herrington, taxpayer advocate; Tambra Kyles, manager, Taxpayer Advocate Services; Jerrie Magruder, Mississippi Field Office director; and Ron Turner, executive director, Meridian Housing Authority

Cathy Herrington, taxpayer advocate, explains the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service to attendees Carla Bassett, Mississippi Department of Health Regional Oral Health consultant, explains to Ebony Doss, parent and Meridian Housing Authority resident, how to combat cavities and early tooth decay with proper dental care

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