SEVCA Seeks Volunteers to Support Free VITA Income Tax Assistance Program for 2026
December 1, 2025
For Immediate Release
SEVCA Seeks Volunteers to Support Free VITA Income Tax Assistance Program for 2026
WESTMINSTER, VT – Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA) is actively recruiting volunteers to join its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, offering free tax preparation services; as well as assistance with homestead declarations, property tax credit claims, and renter credit claims; to residents across Windsor and Windham counties. With appointments available at multiple locations, SEVCA is looking to expand its volunteer base to meet the growing demand for this vital service in 2026.
Volunteers will help individuals and families with low to moderate incomes, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers file their taxes accurately and efficiently. The VITA program aims to help people understand their tax returns and maximize their refunds, a critical boost for many households.
"Volunteering with VITA is a chance to make a real difference in our community," says Emily Strasser, VITA Program Coordinator. "Not only do you assist people with filing their taxes, but you also play a vital role in helping them gain a better understanding of their finances and make informed decisions for their future."
VITA volunteers are essential to the success of this program. They come from diverse backgrounds and receive comprehensive training to ensure they are well-equipped to assist with tax preparation. Volunteer tax preparers must pass an annual IRS certification exam to demonstrate proficiency in tax law and electronic filing, but there are other roles where this is not required. Foreign language or ASL skills are also in great demand.
Joshua Davis, SEVCA’s Executive Director, adds, "This program is centered on making tax assistance accessible to everyone, and our volunteers are essential to its success. By recruiting more volunteers, we can reach more people and amplify our positive impact on the community."
Volunteering with VITA is a rewarding way to give back and gain valuable skills. Training is provided, and volunteers can choose to assist with tax preparation, intake, or provide general support. No prior experience is necessary, and flexible scheduling is available to fit volunteers' availability.
For more information about becoming a VITA volunteer, visit sevca.org/volunteer, call or text the VITA program directly at 1-802-428-3032, or email estrasser@sevca.org or hello@sevca.org.
Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA), a 60-year-old nonprofit serving Windham and Windsor counties by helping families overcome hardship and build stability. In 2024/2025, SEVCA supported 3,500 people in 2,000 households with 7,500+ services—from housing and fuel assistance to financial coaching, early childhood education, micro business support, tax prep, home repair, and weatherization— we are here to help create thriving communities.