Eastern Maine CA$H Coalition recruiting volunteers for ’16 tax season

The Eastern Maine CA$H Coalition (Creating, Assets, Savings and Hope), in partnership with AARP Tax-Aide, the Internal Revenue Service Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) and the United Way of Eastern Maine, is currently recruiting volunteer tax preparers. Each year, thousands of low to moderate-income individuals have their tax returns prepared for free by the Eastern Maine CA$H Coalition. Last year these volunteers helped return over 4.4 million dollars in tax returns to families and individuals throughout Eastern Maine.

Volunteers are currently needed in Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Waldo and Washington counties. No prior experience is necessary; however, basic familiarity with computers and computer software is a plus. All volunteers will be provided with free IRS certification training in December and January.

In addition to tax preparers, there are other volunteer opportunities available including, greeters, financial literacy counselors and IT support (computer/printer setup and troubleshooting).

Individuals who volunteer in the tax counseling and preparation process find the experience extremely rewarding and tend to return year after year to reprise their role. The opportunity to give back to their community, as well as gaining new skills, keep volunteers engaged and intellectually challenged. Volunteers are helping neighbors become more financially stable by maximizing tax credits and deductions.

For more information, or to volunteer contact Janelle Wuoristo, community impact manager at United Way of Eastern Maine at 941-280 ext. 212 or janellew@unitedwayem.org.