MEDA March 2014 Volunteer of the Month: Granger Tripp, Tax Program

Granger Tripp Tax Program

Each month, the Mission Economic Development Agency honors one of its dedicated volunteers—the people who are an integral part of MEDA’s ability to provide free services to low- and moderate-income Bay Area residents. Thanks to all of the selfless MEDA volunteers who choose Plaza Adelante as their second home. 

Name: Granger Tripp (photo center)
Program: Tax Program

Why did you decide to volunteer with MEDA?
I wanted to try and help folks by demystifying personal finances. I worked for 30 years in the financial-services industry and I found so many issues to be really confusing. And I worked in the field! Saving for my kid’s education, retirement, buying insurance, understanding a mortgage, paying taxes, being there for elderly parents . . . it’s all really hard. I heard about the volunteer program at MEDA and hoped it would provide a chance for me to make a little bit of sense for folks who are trying to do the best they can.

What do you like best about volunteering at MEDA?
Helping clients! Taxes are intimidating and clients are often confused and nervous. You can sense their relief when you hand them their taxes and say, “See you next year.” The staff at MEDA is great at explaining any tough situations and making sure that you and the client understand. The standards at MEDA are high and I know we are providing a valuable service.

What have you learned from your volunteer experience?
All volunteering is rewarding, but there is something especially great about helping clients to do their taxes and have them leave MEDA with the job accomplished. Like all volunteering, you always get back more than you put in! I’ve learned a whole lot about taxes, too.

What is something we may not know about you?
Well, there have been four Granger Tripps (of which we know). I enjoy Pilates, San Francisco Giants baseball and Mitchell’s Ice Cream. Oh, and I once performed with Cirque du Soleil, although many people would find that easier than doing their taxes!

Looking to join a great cause, too? Find out how to volunteer at MEDA. We hope you can join us!

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