FORT MYERS — United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is seeking volunteers for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program during the 2024 tax season. Volunteer tax preparers, greeters, and Bilingual-Spanish speaking interpreters are needed to provide no-cost tax preparation services at over 20 locations throughout SWFL for individuals and families earning less than $66,000 per year.

Volunteer tax preparers will receive comprehensive IRS certified training, equipping them with the skills to navigate basic tax returns, use online tax preparation software, and understand tax credits and deductions that benefit eligible taxpayers. Individuals of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to volunteer. Moreover, experienced professionals such as agents, certified financial planners, attorneys, and non-credentialed tax return preparers can earn continuing education credits while giving back through the VITA program.

Last season, United Way’s VITA program generated federal refunds exceeding $7.9 million across Lee, Hendry, Glades, and Charlotte counties. The dedication of the 177 certified volunteers enabled over 7,100 VITA clients to access vital tax assistance, saving them over $2.2 million in tax preparation fees that could then be allocated for essential needs such as food, medical care, housing, and more.

The VITA program is run on volunteer power--volunteers who enjoy working with people and who want to help improve the quality of life for people in our community. We serve people who often cannot afford to pay someone to file their tax returns and do not feel comfortable or inclined to file their own. No experience is necessary -- just a willingness to help. “Seeing the smiles on our clients’ faces is incredibly rewarding,” says Dave Warner VITA volunteer, “It’s a joy that keeps me coming back, along with the camaraderie of our dedicated team.”

Join the VITA program today! Flexible hours are available January through April every tax season. Online orientations and training classes for new volunteers begin in November. Small, in-person classes will be available as well. Simply register online at UnitedWayLee.org/VITA-Volunteer/ or contact Mary Meador at MaryM@UnitedWayLee.org; 239.433.7206 for additional information.

United Way’s Volunteer Center connects individuals and companies to volunteer opportunities throughout our community. You can reach the United Way Volunteer Center by calling 239.433.7567, or by visiting United Way’s website at UnitedWayLee.org/Volunteer.