Confused about my 401-k?

I used to work seasonally for the IRS some yrs ago when I was much younger. I know I had a 401K, but I don't recall doing anything with it before I left. I'm currently employed and have a 401K, but I would like to access the funds from the previous 401K to pay for home improvements-and I don't care to roll it over. I've heard there will be taxes/penalties since i'm not yet in my 50's, and that's ok- I would just like what money I could get from it now. I (think) I probably need to contact the IRS Human Resources Dept, but that's like trying to get into Fort Knox-I can't find any employee contact numbers. Any suggestions?