Thomas University Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program

THOMASVILLE, Ga. – Thomas University students are leveraging their expertise to help community members this tax season.

Through a dedicated volunteer effort, these qualified students are not only refining their skills but also offering assistance to individuals in preparing their tax returns.

After successfully passing the volunteer standards of conduct certification exam and demonstrating proficiency in conducting intake, interview, and quality review exams to effectively assist clients in obtaining necessary information, these students have earned certification as tax return preparers.

They are providing these services free of charge through the sponsorship from Thomas University and the IRS, ensuring accessibility to valuable tax assistance for individuals in need.

“Back in the day there was the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program here, and then I guess over the course of time it went away. Our president, Dr. Sheppard, he wanted us to reestablish that program, to help the community. This particular semester we kicked off the accounting degree program. So, this was a good segue way to generate interest not only for the students but for the community,” said Wendalyn Frederick, Assistant Manager of Budget & Finance.

The Thomas University Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, led by students, is providing walk-in tax preparation sessions for eligible individuals every Wednesday until April 17th. These sessions are available between 1 pm and 5 pm at the Smith Bonvillian Building.

“This process has been pretty smooth, going through the exams and actually having help from the staff here at TU. As far as helping out the community, like it’s been pretty easy as well with people coming in with the proper documentation; like their driver’s license, social security and W-2 tax forms. Volunteer my time because I’m an MBA student here at TU, with hopes of adding this to my resume in the future,” said Keith Harris, student volunteer.

Eligible individuals include those aged 60 or older, earning an annual income of $65,000 or less, or individuals with disabilities.

“This was tremendous. This was a great service for the community. Last year we paid $200 to get our taxes done and that was just a simple form. People were really nice. They helped us even fill out the forms to get the taxes done and it was just tremendous. I mean, it’s free! Who doesn’t love free?,” said Edith Danforth, tax return client.

If you have any questions regarding this service, you may contact Dr. Pauline Ray with Thomas University at 229-200-4547.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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