Indiana University South Bend students are gaining valuable real-world professional experience while helping the Michiana community by participating in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, offering free tax preparation services to low- and moderate-income individuals and families. VITA is a grant-based Internal Revenue Service (IRS) initiative designed to support free tax preparation services through various partner organizations.
The students, many of whom are enrolled in accounting or finance programs at IU South Bend, are providing assistance at various locations throughout the Michiana area as part of the program sponsored by Goodwill Industries of Michiana, Inc. They have been working diligently to prepare tax returns, ensuring that taxpayers receive all eligible credits and deductions.
“For many community members, such as the elderly and those with disabilities or limited English-speaking skills, the VITA program has proven to be a financial lifeline,” explains Sharon Busenbark, accounting lecturer and faculty advisor for the Accounting Association at IUSB. “With tax law constantly evolving, the complexity of filing taxes can be daunting for those without the resources to hire a professional.”
For the students involved, the VITA program offers more than just an opportunity to volunteer—it’s a chance to gain real-world experience that aligns directly with their academic goals. The program provides them with an opportunity to apply the skills they’ve learned in the classroom to a real-world setting. All VITA volunteers who prepare returns must take and pass tax law training that meets or exceeds IRS standards.
In addition to technical skills, students also develop essential communication and problem-solving abilities as they interact with taxpayers, many of whom may feel nervous or confused about the filing process. The VITA program fosters a supportive environment where students not only assist with tax filing but also engage in important conversations about financial literacy.
IU South Bend senior Samantha Czyz, accounting major, became connected with the VITA program through Busenbark and wanted to join to give back, gain hands-on experience, and to solidify her love and interest for the profession.
“VITA has greatly impacted me,” explains Czyz. “It is rewarding to help people in this way because I know it would be difficult for many of the taxpayers who come to VITA to pay to have their returns done or to try to do it themselves.”
“My learning and experience with the program have also helped me in transitioning into my new accounting job. It has helped me to be familiar with certain tax laws and documents that I regularly come across at work.”
The VITA program’s impact extends beyond tax returns and refunds. It provides crucial education to community members who may not otherwise have access to tax filing resources. By participating, individuals and families can better understand their financial situations and be more informed when it comes to managing their money in the future. The program also has a significant economic impact. By ensuring that eligible taxpayers receive refunds such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit, the VITA program helps put money back into the local economy. Many of the individuals who benefit from these services are likely to spend their refunds locally, further strengthening the community’s financial well-being.
“Indiana University South Bend’s commitment to community service is evident in its participation in the VITA program. It’s a testament to the power of education in fostering both academic growth and community engagement,” says Busenbark. “As the VITA program helps more residents each year, both the university and the community are reaping the rewards of this partnership.”