Volunteer Centers make free tax preparation happen

Over the last few years, Volunteer Centers have begun taking the lead in expanding local EITC Initiatives through the effective utilization of volunteers. Volunteer Centers across the nation are:

• Recruiting diverse volunteers to fill EITC service opportunities
• Training and managing volunteers
• Building the capacity of tax coalitions to effectively work with volunteers
• Promoting EITC and the role of volunteers in connecting eligible families to this resource
• Convening partners to build and strengthen coalition efforts' through effective volunteer engagement

Without volunteers, there would be no free tax preparation programs. Fewer working families would get the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and reduce the money that could be spent in local communities. Volunteers are an integral partner in bringing free tax preparation and asset development opportunities to low income communities. Volunteers are taking on a variety of roles in free tax preparation programs: they are preparing taxes, welcoming people coming for free tax preparation, offering information on financial literacy, providing childcare and translation services, and more.

What do Volunteer Centers bring to local EITC initiatives?

• Volunteer management knowledge
• Volunteer sector infrastructure already in place
• Established partnerships/relationships (agencies, communities, volunteers...)
• Media relations
• Previous program management experience

What benefits do Volunteer Centers receive for being involved?

• Increased high-end volunteer opportunities
• Visibility
• Direct service
• Opportunity to show impact (economic)
• Connection to new partners (government, business, nonprofits)
• Opportunity to reach new communities
• Way for Volunteer Centers to demonstrate their core competencies
• Supports Volunteer Centers advocacy efforts
• Sponsorship opportunities
• Connection to existing IRS coalition members
• Different opportunities for Volunteer Centers depending on the Center's availability