AmeriCorps recovers $84M in tax relief for families.

AmeriCorps recovers $84M in tax relief for families.

AmeriCorps: Making an Impact on Communities through Volunteerism

A group of AmeriCorps volunteers assisting families with tax preparation

During the 2023 tax filing season, AmeriCorps volunteers joined forces with local organizations to assist more than 113,000 families across the United States in receiving over $84 million in tax relief. One of these valuable partnerships was formed between AmeriCorps and Tax Help Colorado, Mile High United Way, as Senior Director Nathan Davis expressed in a news release.

“There’s always a degree of unpredictability when it comes to volunteer tax preparation,” said Davis. “The partnership with AmeriCorps takes the guesswork out of that equation.”

What Does AmeriCorps Do?

AmeriCorps, a federal agency, empowers volunteers to serve their communities and country. In 2023, these volunteers assisted 130 communities nationwide in accessing tax credits, deductions, and refunds they were entitled to. This countrywide effort resulted in more than $84 million in tax relief for families with lower incomes. Here are some notable achievements:

  • AmeriCorps NCCC members, a group of young adult volunteers, assisted in returning $15 million to communities through more than 13,000 tax returns.
  • In Denver, volunteers completed 1,525 tax returns for 2,288 people, resulting in over $2.9 million in returns.
  • AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers, aged 55 and older, provided tax preparation services to more than 101,000 taxpayers.

Tax preparation is just one aspect of AmeriCorps’ services. The agency also contributes to disaster relief, education, affordable housing, and more. These remarkable efforts are made possible by the dedication of the 200,000 AmeriCorps volunteers. While the 2023 tax season has concluded for most, the agency is currently accepting applications for other volunteer positions.

Volunteering with AmeriCorps: A Fulfilling Journey

Becoming an AmeriCorps volunteer not only offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on your community but also provides various benefits. Here are some benefits volunteers may receive:

  • Living allowance: Members may receive a living allowance to support their service commitment.
  • Educational assistance: AmeriCorps offers educational assistance and student loan interest repayment programs to help volunteers further their education.
  • Health and insurance benefits: Supplemental health insurance is available for most AmeriCorps programs, ensuring volunteers have access to medical coverage. Additionally, supplemental accident and liability insurance are provided.
  • Childcare benefits: Eligible members may receive childcare benefits, allowing them to serve their communities while their children are cared for.

Eligibility for AmeriCorps Service

Serving with AmeriCorps does not require individuals to be tax professionals. The agency has two main requirements for serving in AmeriCorps State and National:

  1. Be at least 17 years of age (no upper age limit).
  2. Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. National, or Lawful Permanent Resident Alien.

If you meet these requirements and are eager to contribute to your community, open volunteer positions and application information can be found on the AmeriCorps website or by calling the national hotline at 1-800-942-2677.

Join AmeriCorps today and be part of a movement that continues to make a difference in the lives of families across the United States. Together, we can create positive change and uplift communities through volunteerism and service.