Volunteers Wanted

In order serve as many households as possible, the VITA/TCE programs at JEDI are seeking volunteers to ensure everyone eligible can take advantage of this free service. A team of approximately 15 local volunteers assist clients by preparing their returns, identifying opportunities for credits and deductions, and provide tax counseling specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors. On average, only four out of five eligible workers claim and get their Earned Income Tax Credit: leaving 20% of eligible credits unclaimed. In the previous filing season, JEDI’s free VITA/TCE program saved Siskiyou taxpayers an estimated $154,200 in tax preparation fees. 

In anticipation of a busy filing season, JEDI is recruiting individuals to join the VITA/TCE team. Volunteers are tax advocates ensuring Siskiyou households receive their fullest tax return, can submit their returns on time to avoid penalties, and access translated or accessible preparation services. Volunteers are provided with all the training necessary to complete client intake and prepare returns and are supported throughout the year with ongoing support from JEDI and IRS Staff. General computer proficiency is desired, and volunteers can work onsite in Mount Shasta or Yreka, as well as remotely from the comfort of their own home. Individuals interested in serving their community, meeting new people, making deeper connections to Siskiyou, and increasing tax access and equity should contact JEDI to learn more. A simple volunteer interest form is available at https://www.vitajedi.org/volunteers.