As of February 2009, EDG trained more than 6,000 people through a variety of programs and provided more than $10.2 million in micro loans to 592 clients, $996,024 in car loans, $46,500 in credit builder loans, and $53,160 in rental assistance. The IDA program has helped 844 people save $2.45 million, enabling the purchase of $18.6 million in assets, including 60 homes in the Washington DC metro area. It has also helped over 688 clients prepare their tax returns and take home over $702,301 in federal and state refunds and rebates. EDG is also currently incubating 17 start-up small businesses in its Business Incubator.

Kevin S. Kelly, a specialist in microenterprise and community development, has been named managing director for the ECDC Enterprise Development Group (EDG), a subsidiary of the Ethiopian Community Development Council, Inc. dedicated to helping low-to-moderate income people in the national capital area achieve independence and self-sufficiency.

Most recently serving as managing director for policy and advocacy for the Association for Enterprise Opportunity, Kelly has more than 28 years experience in community economic development, including the development of partnerships between private sector businesses and community organizations.

He is a former grants manager for the National Congress for Economic Development, a program officer for a national grantmaker and a consultant to national non-profit organizations. Through study tours abroad, Kelly developed awareness of economic development strategies in South Africa, Ghana, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Kevin earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from California State University at Fullerton and a master’s degree in political science from American University in Washington D.C, with a concentration in American politics. “By training, experience and personal commitment to helping people achieve their entrepreneurial goals, Kevin is uniquely qualified to help EDG expand opportunities for personal and community growth and development,” said EDG President Tsehaye Teferra. “With the nation’s economy experiencing such severe stress and disruption, EDG’s programs and services are even more vital to those seeking help in starting a small business and achieving financial goals. To that challenge, Kevin’s skills will provide us a valued resource.”

EITC/Free Tax Preparation Program for Low Income Individuals. On February 7, EDG kicked off its tax program to help low income individuals prpepare their tax returns and apply for various credits they may be eligible for. For this year, the program is funded in part by TD Bank. The program attracts various partners including the Fairfax VITA Coalition, Boat People SOS, Lutheran Social Services, The Child and Family Network Centers, Arlington-Alexandria Coalition for the Homeless, Doorways for Women and Families, among others. Over 35 volunteers from the private, government, and educational sectors participate in the program every year. Since 2006, EDG has helped over 341 clients receive over $429,000 in refunds and rebates.

EDG is holding tax preparation services every Fridays(6-9 PM) and Saturdays (9-1PM) at 901 South Highland St Arlington VA 22204 (Close to McDonald's Columbia Pike). Please bring:• Photo id • Social Security cards and birthdates for the taxpayer, spouse and dependents • If married and filing joint return, both spouses must be present • Wage and earnings statements: w2, w-2g, 1099-r • Interest and dividends statements • Day care expenses paid in 2008 and day care provider’s name, address, and federal id# • Student loan interest payments • Record tuition or student loan payments, 1098-E • A copy of last year’s federal and state returns including economic stimulus check total • A check or deposit slip if you want direct deposit * Income limit: $42,000

Top photo: From left, Haddish Welday, EDG Finance and Administration Manager; Peter Schatz, HSBC Associate Relationship Manager; Denise Mason, HSBC Vice President and Regional Community Development Manager; Dr. Teferra, EDG President; and Patricia Harrison, HSBC Vice President for Corporate Sales.