The primary mission of Creating Assets, Savings & Hope (CASH)Buffalo is to increase the financial stability of low-to-moderate income families. CASH has developed a three-year strategic plan which focuses on proactive, community-based strategies. They include: 1) strengthening the use of the local free tax preparation network and access to working family credits; 2) broadening use of the local Self-Sufficiency Calculator and other benefits screening tools; 3) increasing the coordination and consistency of local financial education; 4) developing greater support for individuals seeking employment; and 5) expanding the use of Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) and other asset building activities. Over the last several years, the coalition has grown to over sixty members including governmental representatives, faith- and community-based groups, businesses, educational institutions and non-profit organizations.
Type of Volunteer Needed
Ages 17 and above.
Volunteer Skills Needed
Volunteers are needed for CASH's Free Tax Preparation Network. You don't need to be a professional tax preparer to help out. New inexperienced volunteers participate in training prior to our sites opening. All courses are free for anyone who becomes a volunteer. Training schedule and Tax site sign up will be available on our website.
Volunteer Responsibilities
Volunteers can choose one of four positions: 1) Greeter; 2)CASH Advisor; 3) Tax Preparer; and 4) Tax Expert. Greeters serve as the first point of contact for taxpayers. They will greet the taxpayer; provide an overview of the site and services; answer general questions; and maintain the lines of tax clients for tax preparation services. CASH Advisors determine taxpayers eligibility for service; assist taxpayers in completing intake forms; review/sort taxpayer documents; provide information about financial education and asset building opportunities; and prepare materials for tax preparers. Tax Preparers prepare and print returns; review returns; and discuss the next step with taxpayers. Tax Experts are experienced tax preparers, accountants or CPA's which act as a roaming resource for preparers. Tax Experts also review returns for accuracy.
