The Green River Asset Building Coalition (GRABC) is seeking volunteers for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which provides free tax preparation services for low- to moderate-income individuals and families. As the tax season approaches, GRABC is aiming to expand its volunteer base to meet increasing demand.
GRABC Executive Director Theresa Thomas said the organization has 40 volunteers in Owensboro but needs 70 to support the community. She added that volunteers are critical to moving GRABC toward its goal of transitioning to an appointment-based system to “reduce wait times and improve efficiency.”
“Many of the people we assist are working two or three jobs and cannot afford professional tax services,” Thomas said. “Our volunteers provide critical financial relief by ensuring taxpayers receive proper tax advice and all the credits they’re entitled to, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Child Tax Credit.”
GRABC moved into a new location at 1741 Scherm Road last year, where it now provides services and training. Thomas said volunteers do not need prior tax experience. GRABC offers IRS-certified training to prepare volunteers for roles such as tax preparers, intake greeters, and document reviewers.
“Anyone who wants to help can find a role that fits their skills and availability,” Thomas said. “Even if you can only volunteer a few hours a month, you’re making a meaningful impact.”
She said GRABC’s free tax preparation services are available to households with incomes under the IRS-established threshold, which typically ranges between $68,000 and $72,000 annually. The VITA program also serves individuals over 60.
Thomas emphasized the program’s broader impact, noting that tax refunds can be pivotal for many families, helping them pay rent, buy groceries, or cover healthcare costs.
“For some families, a tax refund can mean financial stability,” Thomas said. “Volunteering with GRABC ensures that more families can access these life-changing services.”
GRABC will host several upcoming training sessions for volunteers, with lunch provided at most sessions:
- Dec. 28: Owensboro location, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (basic tax laws)
- Jan. 4: Owensboro location, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (advanced tax laws)
- Jan. 11: Leitchfield Campus of Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Jan. 18: Henderson Housing Authority, 9 a.m. to noon
Additionally, GRABC is hosting a volunteer recruitment open house on Saturday, Dec. 21, from 8 to 10 a.m. at 1741 Scherm Road. Donuts and coffee will be served, and attendees can learn more about the program and volunteer opportunities.
For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, visit GRABC.org, call (270) 685-1603, or email Teresa Thomas at [email protected].
“Our slogan is, ‘Let’s make a difference one tax return at a time,’” Thomas said. “Volunteering here is a chance to lift others up and ensure families can thrive.”
