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For Immediate Release
February 25 , 2008
filing taxes for good cause: student volunteers help others find tax credits
LINCOLN, Neb. — Filing income taxes isn’t typically described as an effortless or exciting process but a group of Nebraska Wesleyan University accounting students are hoping their help with tax returns is making someone’s day a little easier.
For the past three years, Nebraska Wesleyan students have offered their time and talents to the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Students have helped numerous low-to moderate income people by preparing their taxes and helping them find special credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit.
The University’s participation in the program was started by Courtney Baillie, Associate Professor of Accounting. The first year was spent volunteering at various VITA sites around Lincoln. For the past two years, students established their own site at Anderson Library.
“I think it’s important for Nebraska Wesleyan and its students to give back to the community,” said Baillie.
Nanne Olds, Assistant Professor of Accounting, also plays an instrumental role in implementing Nebraska Wesleyan’s VITA program. She supervises the program and prepares each student for their tax filing responsibilities.
“This program wouldn’t be anywhere close to what it is today without Professor Olds’ help,” said student Lauren Stamm. “She is so dedicated and really helps everything run smoothly.”
Not just any student can help. In preparation, VITA members must attend three classes and pass two different certification exams. They also attend a four-hour class where they learn how to use the IRS’ tax return software.
“It really touches my heart when the people are so appreciative of what we are doing to help them,” said student Christa Dey, who has spent many of her Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings providing tax assistance. “That’s when you know what you are doing really matters.”
Last year, students prepared 254 tax returns totaling more than $115,000 in refunds for clients.
“It has been a challenge but also very rewarding for me,” said Stamm. “I’m so glad that this opportunity was offered to me.”
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