FORT MYERS, Fla. - TelAve -- The United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is seeking volunteers to help the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program during the 2027 filing season. Join VITA and you can help provide free tax preparation for hardworking families and individuals earning $100,000 or less at more than 25 locations across Southwest Florida.

Whether you're a retired professional, working adult, college student or simply someone who wants to help others, VITA offers a rewarding way to make a difference. Volunteers receive free training and support throughout the season. Just a few hours of your time can help local families, seniors and individuals receive every dollar they're entitled to and avoid costly tax preparation fees.

Last year, 234 VITA volunteers made a tremendous impact across Southwest Florida, helping prepare more than 9,000 tax returns and bring more than $11 million in federal refunds back to local households. The service also saved taxpayers an estimated $2.7 million in preparation fees, putting more money back into family budgets and strengthening our local economy.

"Volunteering with VITA has given me the opportunity to get real-world experience while making an impact on my community," said Tristan Weeks, a recent FGCU College of Business graduate and VITA volunteer. "I hope to encourage more people to volunteer with VITA, as it has been a life-changing experience for me."

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Join the VITA program today and help us make a difference in our community. Flexible hours are available from January through April every tax season. Orientation and training classes for new volunteers begin in November. To register, visit UnitedWayLee.org/VITA-Volunteer, or contact VITA@UnitedWayLee.org for more information.

About United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades

United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades has raised and distributed more than $272 million since its establishment in 1957, with all funds staying local to support a vast network of partner agencies and community programs. Together, we serve the community by nurturing youth, strengthening families, helping the elderly and people with disabilities live independently, supporting veterans and empowering neighborhoods by delivering essential health and human services. Visit UnitedWayLee.org (https://www.unitedwaylee.org/) to learn more.