United Way of Santa Barbara County launches 2024 recruitment drive for volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) program

As tax season approaches, United Way of Santa Barbara County is excited to announce the recruitment drive for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) volunteers. The VITA program, a cornerstone of community support, provides free tax preparation and assistance to qualifying residents in Santa Barbara County.

With the aim of expanding their dedicated team, United Way of Santa Barbara County is seeking additional volunteers, including students from local colleges, to join the VITA program. This volunteer-driven initiative plays a crucial role in helping local households with limited income receive the tax support they need.

The VITA program, accessible to Santa Barbara County residents earning $67,000 or less annually, has been instrumental in securing over $2 million in refunds for more than 3,000 local households each year. IRS-certified volunteers in the program assist clients in reviewing tax documents, preparing necessary paperwork and filing returns with the IRS.

The volunteer opportunities available in the VITA program include:
· Site greeter
· Tax reviewer*
· Tax preparer*
(*Requires IRS certification)

United Way of Santa Barbara County is committed to supporting its volunteers and will provide free IRS training and certification, both in person and online, starting January 2024.

“We believe in the power of community and the impact that dedicated individuals can have on the lives of their neighbors,” said Yoseline Gonzalez, community impact program manager at United Way. “By volunteering with the VITA program, these wonderful community members are directly contributing to the financial well-being of local families in need.”

For those interested in becoming a VITA volunteer or seeking more information, please visit www.unitedwaysb.org/vita.

Questions can also be directed to Yoseline Gonzalez at ygonzalez@unitedwaysb.org or (805) 965-8594.

About United Way of Santa Barbara County
Since 1923, United Way of Santa Barbara County has been a key leader in local efforts to empower children, families, and communities through its own unique collaborative programs and initiatives, partnership convening efforts, volunteer development, and funding. United Way’s mission is to enrich the lives of children and families and build resilient communities by leading local programs and partnerships that improve school readiness and academic achievement, financial empowerment, and crisis response and recovery. To learn more, please visit unitedwaysb.org.