Volunteer

In order to 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 assists clients by preparing their returns, identifying opportunities for credits and deductions, and providing 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 $188,400 in tax preparation fees. 

Last year in California, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) volunteers assisted close to 76,000 individuals and families in getting more money in their pockets by providing free basic tax return preparation for low- and moderate-income taxpayers.

This group of dedicated volunteers helped connect individuals and families with tax credits like the California Earned Income Tax (CalEITC), the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) for families with small children, and the recently introduced Foster Youth Tax Credits. But we need more volunteers to meet the growing demand.

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 homes.

“VITA volunteers are truly the foundation of the success of the crucial VITA program. Every year VITA sites operate at capacity, and there is a huge need for volunteers both in-person and virtually,” shared Andrea Vogler, Senior Programs Coordinator at Golden State Opportunity.

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.