To the Editor:

Will you join us? We need volunteers!

The Potsdam Neighborhood Center is recruiting volunteers for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. This is an exciting opportunity to help folks file their taxes in a professional environment while helping them avoid costly fees and charges.

Why volunteer with the Center? Center volunteers have a common answer- it’s meaningful for them to help others and it makes them feel part of the community. Another reason is because we get the job done! It’s a needed service and you will see the good things people do with their returns, from getting needed medical attention to saving their houses from possible foreclosure. You will be making a difference in the lives of others. And, don’t forget- volunteering is great on a resume, and tax prep skills are in high demand.

What can a volunteer expect? A volunteer will first need to become certified by the Internal Revenue Service. This is a free, online, and self paced training with plenty of resources to ensure your success. We have trained volunteers who can help guide and support you. Every file will be double checked and quality reviewed, so volunteers are very confident in the work they do. You will be joining a team of vibrant, friendly, and well established volunteers. We are asking potential volunteers to be able to give 4 hours of time per week from the middle of January until mid April.

We’d like to get started with training as soon as we can. If you feel like this could be an opportunity for you, please contact the Center Director at 265-3920, or by email at potsdamnc@slccdp.org.

The Potsdam Neighborhood Center is part of St. Lawrence County Community Development Program, Inc. and for 50 years has been committed to assisting individuals and families to attain self-reliance, dignity, and self-sufficiency through educations, guidance and services.

Daisy Cox

Potsdam Neighborhood Center