Tax season can be a stressful time for families, especially for those navigating complicated financial systems without affordable, reliable assistance. At MEDA, we work to make this process easier by offering free, high-quality tax preparation services through our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. For the 2025 tax season, we’re calling on community members to join us as volunteers and make a real difference.

Why Volunteering Matters

For volunteers like Jaime Delgado, MEDA’s VITA Program is more than just a way to give back; it’s a personal mission. Jaime first joined the program after witnessing his parents’ struggles with a commercial tax preparer.

“They were being treated poorly and charged unfairly,” he explained. “I didn’t want anyone else to go through that. I decided to get certified in tax preparation and volunteer at MEDA to help my family and others in the community.”

Now in his third tax season with MEDA, Jaime finds his role both meaningful and rewarding.

“I’ve worked with a variety of clients, including seniors who are still working and need help with their taxes,” he said. “Helping them and knowing I’ve lifted that burden is incredibly satisfying. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about making their lives easier.”

The Impact of Volunteering

MEDA’s VITA Program is a lifeline for families, helping them claim over $6 million in tax refunds annually. These refunds often provide critical financial stability, enabling families to pay for necessities like housing, healthcare, and education.

As a VITA volunteer, you will:

• Help families secure much-needed refunds.
• Gain valuable skills in tax preparation and community service.
• Be part of a nationwide effort to support economic mobility for low-to-moderate-income families.

What to Expect as a Volunteer

MEDA provides all the training and resources needed to succeed, including a certification process to prepare you for tax season. Volunteer roles include basic and advanced tax preparers.

Volunteers can choose from flexible training options:

• In-person sessions on January 11, 2025, and January 18, 2025 (9:30 AM to 2:00 PM).
• Self-paced training for those with busy schedules.
• The program runs from January 21 to April 15, 2025, with volunteer shifts available Monday through Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

Volunteer Locations

To make volunteering accessible, MEDA offers several service models:

• In-Person Assistance: Plaza Adelante (2301 Mission Street).
• 3120 Mission Workforce Development Center – Virtual assistance via GetYourRefund.org.
• 170 Otis Service Center – Drop-off services processed virtually.

A Chance to Grow and Give Back

Jaime, a recent finance graduate, found his volunteer experience aligned with his studies while also providing a sense of community connection.

“MEDA supports its volunteers with training and even food vouchers,” Jaime noted. “It’s a great way to give back while gaining experience in a field I’m passionate about.”

To anyone considering volunteering, Jaime offers this advice:“You’ll feel a sense of pride and joy knowing you’ve helped someone during a stressful time. Tax season is overwhelming, but you can make it easier for others while growing personally and professionally.”

How to Get Involved

MEDA is seeking dedicated volunteers to join the VITA Program and make an impact this tax season. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to learn and a passion for helping others.

For questions or more information, contact: mhernandez@medasf.org
Sign up today: Volunteer Registration Form

This tax season, empower families, strengthen your community, and grow with MEDA. Together, we can make a lasting impact.