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Become a V.I.T.A. Volunteer this Tax Season
Every year Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (V.I.T.A.) volunteers help low-income working families throughout Pierce County maximize their income by providing free tax-preparation services and savings options. You can boost your skills and give back to your community this tax season by becoming a VITA volunteer.
"I found it extremely gratifying to be able to help people in such a direct and immediate way. Most of the people I assisted were entitled to tax credits or a tax refund and often both. The refunds and credits represented money these people really needed but probably would not have received without the assistance of the VITA program. The program truly makes a difference and it felt great to be a contributor."
Many low-income families find the forms complicated to complete on their own and may miss claiming money due to them. Paying for professional tax services for simple tax filings is expensive and takes a financial toll on the whole family. By becoming a volunteer tax preparer or savings promoter, you can help low-income working families retain their full refund or provide them with savings options and affordable banking solutions to build long-term financial stability.
So which role best fits your skills and interests?
Tax Preparer: Electronically file tax returns and help working families claim all the tax credits for which they are eligible. No experience necessary. New volunteers receive both online and classroom training, returning volunteers receive a 4 to 6 hour refresher.
Advanced Tax Preparer: Complete more difficult returns and help less experienced volunteers. Previous tax preparation experience needed.
Savings Promoter: Help customers create emergency savings and build a nest egg by connecting them with affordable banking and savings products. Excellent communication and willingness to speak in front of groups and one-on-one is desirable.
Greeter: If you are friendly, organized and customer-service driven this is a great opportunity. Help customers through the intake process and create a welcoming environment.
Training is provided and little-to-no experience is required. Give back to your community 3 to 4 hours a week from late January to April 15th by registering to become a volunteer today through the Pierce County Asset Building Coalition. Email Barb at pcabc@associatedministries.org or visit the website for more information and to fill out an application. | |
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Give the Gift of Caring this Season
It's coming, it's coming, the Season of Caring!
Time for family, friends and community sharing.
With times being so tough and so many in need,
The endeavor ahead might seem daunting indeed.
But when working together who knows what we'll do,
So join in food drives, toy drives and sponsorships too.
Come rain, snow or ice, forget weather so wearing
This season we'll prove the true meaning of caring.
So now come do what you can, give big or give small.
You make a difference when you answer the call.
The Volunteer Center is currently working with local support agencies to obtain information on families in need throughout Pierce County. If you are a previous sponsor, keep your eyes on your inbox for this year's sponsorship forms. If you are getting involved for the first time, please visit our website to obtain forms for sponsorship, toy or food drives or a giving tree. If you are interested in adopting a family for Thanksgiving, the winter holiday or both, family sponsorship information will be available early November but please feel free to submit your forms early. | |
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ACT NOW, Make a Lasting Difference
Last month, UWPC's Volunteer Center launched, ACT NOW, a new volunteer initiative. As the new millennium progresses, the modern face of volunteerism is changing. More often volunteers are exploring a range of organizations, contributing to numerous causes and giving back on their schedule.
ACT NOW's kick-off project was in partnership with Rebuilding Together South Sound. Thirteen volunteers came together to assemble 500 'Energy Efficiency Outreach Bags' which were distributed to homes in low-income neighborhoods throughout Pierce County. By using energy efficient practices, households can save money or apply it to rent, food and other daily needs that might otherwise go unmet.
This project truly demonstrated the concept behind ACT NOW and the belief that a small group can make a large impact in just a few hours of one day.
Check out the upcoming events below.
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| October 10th
ACT NOW Project at Edgewood Food Bank Come volunteer with friends and meet new people while stocking shelves and distributing nutritious food on-site to local families. Take an afternoon to make a difference in your community. |
October 13th
ACT NOW Project with Urban Grace
Set up temporary shelter for 50 guests who will attending Project Homeless Connect the following day at the Tacoma Dome. One evening, two hours, a world of help.
Visit the website to register yourself or a group for either project. |
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