Huntington, W. Va. — Do you like helping people? Then the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program sponsored by The Southwest EITC / Asset Building Coalition, a United Way Community Partner, may be just what you’re looking for.

The VITA Program assists those with low-to-moderate incomes. Trained Volunteer Tax Preparers explain the many special credits and deductions and how people may claim them on their tax returns. Volunteers will help individuals complete and electronically file their returns –for free.

Who are these volunteers? People just like you — college students, law students, homemakers, members of volunteer or community organizations, and businessmen and women. You name it. Volunteer Tax Preparers receive free instruction and all training and certification materials necessary to prepare basic income tax returns. Training and certification generally is conducted in January. Training and certification is conducted in Huntington. Tax preparation sites are located throughout Cabell, Wayne, Lincoln, Mason and Lawrence counties. Volunteers are also needed to help in other ways. Volunteers may help organize tax sites, while others serve as greeters and quality assurance reviewers.

Training for all volunteers will begin tomorrow, January 6, 2008 at 5 p.m. Registration is required. Online training is available. To register call Monica Donohoe at 304.523.8920 ext. 6. or email monica.donohoe@unitedwayrivercities.org.

United Way is focused on the building blocks for a better life – education, income and