9/11 Never Forget, Become a VITA Volunteer, and Federal Clean Energy Tax Credits Ending

September 12, 2025


 


Yesterday marked 24 years since nearly 3,000 lives were lost on September 11, 2001. Thousands have died since due to exposure to toxic chemicals, and countless lives have been forever changed. May we never forget those who perished through this act of terror, and the courage of the first responders, construction crews, service members, and everyday citizens who ran toward danger to save others, and who worked tirelessly in the days and years that followed to help our country rebuild.

Though we move further away from that fateful day each year, we must continue to honor those Americans we lost and never stop the fight against terror and for peace.
 

Become a VITA Volunteer

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) is a free tax preparation program for individuals and families earning up to $69,000 annually. Volunteers helped provide more than $28 million in refunds and credits last year.

Despite the help, individuals and families in Hartford, Tolland, and Windham Counties are still struggling to make ends meet.

If you’re interested in serving your community, click here to register to become a VITA volunteer. If you have any questions, take a look at the graphics below and feel free to contact Taniqua Huguley at THuguley@unitedwayinc.org or 860-420-2141. 
 

Federal Clean Energy Tax Credits Ending This Year

There are thousands of dollars in clean energy incentives that are about to expire, here's how you can still utilize them.

If you’ve been thinking about going solar, buying an electric vehicle, or upgrading your home with cleaner, more affordable energy — now is the time to act! 

Electric Vehicle (EV) Credits:

Find out which new and used EVs still qualify for federal tax credits of up to $7,500 until September 30, 2025.

Residential Clean Energy Credits:

Claim 30% of the total cost of solar panels, battery storage, and geothermal systems if you buy by December 31, 2025. 

Energy Efficient Home Upgrade Credits:

Make home energy upgrades, like insulation, windows, or efficient electric appliances, by December 31, 2025, to claim the credit.

Click here to view the full credit timeline of tax credits. 
 

Community Events

Vernon residents can dispose of hazardous waste items properly and safely at a FREE household hazardous waste collection day. Click here for list of what can and cannot be taken to the collection.

Vernon is a member of a regional consortium with a disposal site at 321 Olcott St. in Manchester. Click here to make an appointment as you must make an appointment to dispose of items.

Collection events at 321 Olcott St., Manchester:

  • Saturday, September 13, 8:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M.
  • Saturday, October 11, 8:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M.
  • Saturday, November 1, 8:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M.

Collection event at Somers High School, 5 Vision Blvd., Somers:

  • Saturday, October 4, 8:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M.

You must bring a driver’s license, tax bill or vehicle registration to prove you are a resident of Vernon.

Leave all hazardous materials in their original containers.

DO NOT bring used motor oil or antifreeze. These are not hazardous materials and can be taken to the Vernon Transfer Station free of charge.
 

Come out to Henry Park on Thursday, September 18 to celebrate 55 years of Health, Healing, Hope with the Hockanum Valley Community Council, Inc. (HVCC).

This private nonprofit human services agency located in Vernon is dedicated to meeting the needs of the residents of Hartford, Tolland, New London, and Windham County.

Their mission is to provide services to individuals and families in a manner which will promote independence while ensuring that basic needs are met regardless of ability to pay. HVCC employs a dedicated team of staff and volunteers to provide quality programming, treatment, and services to over 3,000 families a year.

Click here for more information and to RSVP.
 
 

The New England Civil War Museum & Research Center is hosting a Civil War Weekend September 20-21 at Wickham Park. A weekend of Civil War living history with camps that open at 8:00 A.M. 

Talk with living historians portraying soldiers from the blue and gray. Skirmishes will be each day at 1:00 P.M., demonstrating the tactics and weapons of the Civil War!