For over 20 years, the Lundy-Fetterman School of Business has provided free tax return preparation for the community through an Internal Revenue Service-sanctioned program called Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA).
This year, Dr. Pamela Strickland and her team of student volunteers filed 450 tax returns — nearly twice as many as they’ve completed in the past.
VITA assists taxpayers who generally earn $60,000 or less. These taxpayers are typically older adults or single parents who would otherwise not file or pay to have their returns filed.
Dr. Strickland shared, “This would have been impossible without the support of the Harnett County Library staff and the student and community volunteers that serve tirelessly to assist taxpayers. Many days the VITA volunteers worked more hours than what was on the schedule, and it is that sort of giving spirit that makes the VITA experience one that will resonate with volunteers for a long time.”
Volunteers prepared tax returns every Wednesday from 1:00PM to 6:30PM from February 8 through April 5 at the Harnett County Public Library Resource Center and Library Training Room.
One student volunteer said, “It was a very practical, real-world experience that involved communication and team-effort.” Another said, “This experience was overall a very fulfilling experience and a great way to touch the Lillington community.”
One taxpayer was so grateful for this community service that he bought Bojangles breakfast for everyone; It was Bo-time for sure.
The VITA program has wrapped up ahead of the conclusion of tax season; For more information on next year’s iteration of the program, please contact Harnett County Public Library at 910-893-3446.