Julie Fahnestock, our Founder & Creative Director with Marcela Ahumada, our Spanish Brand Strategy & Content Partner.
“Ariva is one of the best-kept secrets in NYC. Whether you need help getting your finances in order and understanding how the US financial system works, or need someone who is safe, trustworthy, empathetic, and really has your best interests in mind, Ariva is there for you. Not only that, but they’re a team that really loves working together. When you walk in their doors, you join their community.” – Julie Fahnestock, B Storytelling Founder & Creative Director
As a B Corp connoisseur, we really value generosity, so you can only imagine how much we rock with GivingTuesday. It’s a day that encourages selflessness and inspires millions around the world to give — what’s not to love? ❤️
This year marks the 10th anniversary of GivingTuesday and we’re celebrating by putting the spotlight on our longtime client Ariva. Headquartered in the Bronx, Ariva has been blessing New York City with their free tax prep and financial counseling services since 2003.
Here’s what Ariva’s been doing to help New Yorkers combat economic uncertainty and become financially empowered (and with the way the economy’s looking, who couldn’t use a bit of financial empowerment? 😭):
Tax szn: *sigh* Tax season is nearly upon us. If you struggle during tax time, Ariva’s has your back via their free tax prep services. With 13 tax prep sites across NYC, their IRS-certified staff and volunteers help eligible NYC residents file their tax returns and claim key credits like the Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). This past year, Ariva helped more than 5,500 New Yorkers file their taxes. 🤩
Power to the Volunteers: One of the things we admire most about Ariva is how their volunteers stand ten toes down on the mission. They help prepare tax returns alongside 100+ other teammates, and some volunteers have been around for over a decade. The best part? ZERO accounting experience is required to become a volunteer. Ariva trains all of their volunteers and gives them access to free personal income tax prep, official IRS certification, and even college credit.
Ready to Rent: Let’s be real — rent ain't cheap and applying for affordable housing can feel like an endless cycle. Fortunately, Ariva’s Ready to Rent program provides free one-on-one counseling and assistance with affordable housing applications. The program has no credit score requirement and it’s open to all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status.
ITIN applications: No SSN, no problem. Ariva helps individuals get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file taxes and access numerous benefits across NYC. With an ITIN, you can open a bank account, build your credit, and so much more. Say hello to wealth-building. 🤑
To be honest, we’re amazed at just how much Ariva does for New Yorkers. The team’s generosity, dedication, and mission-driven attitude are exactly what we need to create a more equitable and prosperous NYC. It’s truly a blessing that we get to work with them and help amplify their impact!
This GivingTuesday, pay it forward by supporting Ariva with a donation so that they can continue to empower New Yorkers with crucial financial tools and resources. Can’t give monetarily? No worries. Give the gift of time by becoming a volunteer. 🫶