Get Involved-Spotlight: Community Tax Centers
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What Are the Community Tax Centers?
Community Tax Centers is a program offered by Foundation Communities, a nonprofit organization that empowers low-income individuals and families with the tools they need to succeed. Since 2005, the Community Tax Centers program has offered free, quality income tax preparation for low- and moderate-income families in central Texas, who make an average of $18,000 per year.
In 2008, the program’s 470 IRS-certified volunteers helped 17,284 people file their taxes, returning more than $20 million to our neighbors who need it most and to the Austin economy. Individuals and families using our free tax preparation services saved more than $2.5 million in tax preparation fees.
Volunteers Make the $26 Million Difference!
At the Community Tax Centers, volunteers help low-income families claim millions of dollars in tax refunds and credits. By providing free, quality income tax preparation services, IRS-certified volunteers give working families a chance to build a financial future.
For the 2009 tax season, the Community Tax Centers need more than 500 volunteers to reach our goal of completing 20,000 tax returns and putting $26 million back into the pockets of those who need it most. There are 10 tax centers conveniently located in Austin and throughout central Texas, including Round Rock, Del Valle and Bastrop.
What It Takes to Volunteer at Community Tax Centers
Other Ways to Volunteer
- Intake Specialist: We need friendly volunteers to help welcome clients and organize their tax documents. Attend a three-hour training.
- Translator: Twenty percent of our clients speak only Spanish. We need bilingual volunteers to assist Spanish-speaking clients. No tax knowledge needed!
Community Tax Center Volunteers Speak Out
“This is the most productive volunteering I have ever done. It really does make a difference to individuals and the community.”
“What I see happening at Community Tax Centers helps restore my faith in people. Maybe that’s what keeps me coming back each year.”
“Volunteering at the Tax Center has been such a rewarding experience for me! I love watching our clients walk out the door with huge smiles on their faces! It is great to help others and know that you have made a positive impact on their lives.”
To sign up to volunteer, visit www.communitytaxcenters.org.
Please direct inquiries to:
Jackie Blair, Volunteer Coordinator
Email: jackie.blair@foundcom.org
Phone: 512-447-2026 x35
Foundation Communities Mission
Community Tax Centers is a program of Foundation Communities, a nationally-recognized nonprofit organization that creates high-quality affordable housing and empowers families and individuals with low incomes through programs that educate, support and improve financial standing. Founded in 1989, Foundation Communities creates housing where families succeed. Foundation Communities is a member agency of United Way Capital Area and a charter member of NeighborWorks America, a national network of more than 240 community-based organizations creating healthy communities. To learn more, visit www.foundcom.org.
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