Step Up Suncoast Seeks Volunteers to Empower Local Families Through Free Tax Assistance Program
Step Up Suncoast is calling on community members to make a difference this upcoming tax season by volunteering with its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. We are now recruiting volunteers to help provide free, high-quality tax preparation services to low- and moderate-income individuals and families across Manatee County.
No prior tax experience is required. All volunteers receive comprehensive training and certification to ensure they feel confident and supported in their role. Opportunities are available for a variety of tasks, including acting as greeters, tax preparers, reviewers, and site coordinators.
“VITA is a wonderful way for people to give back in a meaningful way,” said Amy Yount, President and Chief Executive Officer of Step Up Suncoast, Inc. “Every volunteer helps strengthen our community and puts more money back into the hands of working families.”
Last year alone, Step Up Suncoast’s VITA volunteers prepared and filed 1,382 returns and to help return over one million dollars in tax refunds to families in Manatee County. These funds go directly back into the local economy.
The program welcomes both individual volunteers looking to connect with others and organizations that want to serve together. Businesses and community partners may also volunteer their office or facility to act as a tax filing site during the season. Sites receive considerable foot traffic during tax preparation hours. Each site is typically open for a four-hour period, one to two days during the week.
Volunteers must be 18 years or older and able to commit to at least one four-hour shift per week during tax season, which runs February through mid-April.
Interested individuals or organizations can learn more or sign up by joining us for our next VITA Social Hour, on November 13, 2025 at 9:30am, by visiting our website at https://stepupsuncoast.org/programs/vita-tax-prep/, or emailing taxes@stepupsuncoast.org
About Step Up Suncoast, Inc.: Step Up Suncoast, Inc. is a nonprofit incorporated in 1968 and designated Community Action Agency servicing Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Hardee and Desoto Counties. Programming is focused on empowering individuals and families by providing education and support on their path to self-sufficiency. Step Up Suncoast, Inc. strengthens the family unit through early childhood education, speech screening programs, and parenting education and support. Step Up Suncoast, Inc. offers housing counseling, utility and housing assistance, free tax assistance, and home weatherization so clients can overcome financial hardships and build independence. All programs and services are free to qualifying individuals. For more information, please visit www.StepUpSuncoast.org or call 941-827-2887.