Volunteer Voices - You can make a difference in someone's life

Without a doubt, one person can make a difference. This page is an illustration and a celebration of that—the positive ripple effect that is volunteerism; the idea that "one person" working together with other "one persons," despite differences in opinions, beliefs, and backgrounds, can come together to achieve a common goal for the betterment of a community.

the Voices of dabc volunteers

My first year with Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) I was getting college credit through their internship program. I enjoyed working with the low income clients to get them huge refunds. It really made a difference in there lives. I remember one little old lady that was so tickled to get a $900 refund. She was laughing out loud. It just makes you feel so good to help people that I came back last year and will as long as I can. When the "feel good bug" bites you are hooked.

     - Larry Chapman, DABC Tax Assistor

I initially chose to do volunteer tax assistance for the challenge of piecing together someone's information in TaxWise software and seeking to maximize their refund. One of the benefits I expected was a broader understanding of tax law and comfort level with preparing taxes - but what I got was so much more. The level of satisfaction I now receive demystifying the tax process for people is not measurable. In just a few minutes, with preparatory training and a good software package, I am able to provide people a tax return and usually a refund that, until they walked in the door, caused them significant anxiety. Where else can one achieve such a feeling of accomplishment in so short a period of time!  I highly recommend this volunteer activity to anyone who is seeking a way to help others in a true hands-on, helpful endeavor.

     - John Russell, DABC Site Coordinator

Last year I was asked to teach the basic law course for VITA volunteers. The carrot was that I would get CPE credit, so I thought "why not?" I really enjoyed the teaching, but that was just the start. I then found out about Colorado Saves and became a wealth coach. As a CPA and a person who believes in staying out of debt, I was very interested in becoming involved in this very worthwhile cause. The teaching and coaching have been a real benefit to me, and hopefully I am able to help others. The CPE is nice, but I have a wonderful feeling that I may be able to make a real difference to others. I would strongly encourage each of you to "go the extra mile" when considering volunteering. I didn't know how much fun I could have working until I got involved.

     - Lorraine L. Dunn, CPA, DABC Instructor

VOLUNTEERING WITH THE DABC

Are you interested in volunteering with the DABC?  Please visit our Current Volunteer Opportunities page.