2025 Annual Report - Flipbook - Page 30
BREAKING THE CYCLE OF POVERTY THROUGH FREE TAX ASSISTANCE
Low- and moderate-income families in Greater Nashville often can’t access safe, affordable
and accurate tax preparation. Many pay high fees or face errors that reduce the refunds they
rely on for basic needs. There is a clear need for trusted, IRS-certi昀椀 ed, no-cost tax help that
ensures families receive every dollar they’ve earned.
UWGN’s VITA program provides free, IRS-certi昀椀 ed tax preparation through trained
community volunteers. We help families 昀椀 le accurately, access the refunds and credits
they’ve earned, avoid predatory fees, and strengthen their 昀椀 nancial stability—all at trusted,
convenient locations across Middle Tennessee.
During the 2024–2025 tax season, VITA achieved remarkable milestones that underscore its
vital role in helping individuals and families access the resources they need to thrive.
In 2025 alone, the program:
> Filed a Record Number of Returns: This year, VITA volunteers prepared 10,604 tax returns
for low- to moderate-income households, ensuring that families received every credit and
deduction they were eligible for.
> Maximized Refunds and Credits: Through expert guidance, VITA helped clients claim
millions in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) and Child Tax Credits, putting critical dollars
back into the local economy and directly into the hands of those who need them most.
> Expanded Access: We increased the number of service sites and introduced 昀氀 exible
appointment options, including virtual tax preparation, to meet clients where they are.
CERTIFIED VOLUNTEERS: THE HEART OF VITA
Our success is powered by a dedicated team of IRS-certi昀椀 ed volunteers who bring both
technical expertise and compassion to every interaction. These volunteers undergo rigorous
training to ensure accuracy and compliance, while also providing a welcoming environment
for clients. Their commitment transforms tax preparation into a pathway for 昀椀 nancial
empowerment.
> Volunteer Impact: Over the season, our volunteers contributed thousands of hours,
collectively saving over $2.6 million in tax preparation fees.
> Building Community Trust: By offering free, reliable and professional services, our volunteers
strengthen community con昀椀 dence in 昀椀 nancial systems and foster long-term relationships.
IMPACT ON ECONOMIC MOBILITY
The VITA program is more than tax preparation—it is a catalyst for breaking cycles of poverty.
Every refund processed represents an opportunity for families to pay down debt, build savings
and invest in their future. By reducing 昀椀 nancial stress and increasing disposable income, VITA
helps create a foundation for stability and growth.
> Total Economic Impact: $10.6 million returned to households throughout Middle Tennessee.
> Empowerment Through Education: Clients leave with not only completed tax returns
but also a better understanding of their 昀椀 nancial situation, empowering them to make
informed decisions year-round.
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