The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VTIA) program, operated by the Social Development Commission (SDC) since the 2001/2002 tax season, has prepared and filed free tax returns for more than 162,800 low-to-middle income households in Milwaukee County. More than $174 million has been returned to the Milwaukee economy through the program. The grant, awarded by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), requires SDC to provide matching funds for VITA. There is a current shortfall of $40,000. Funds need to be secured by December 31 for the 2015/2016 season. SDC is asking for help from the community to raise matching funds.

Tax preparation and filing is only one component of VITA. Clients served by the program have the opportunity to participate in financial workshops, meet with financial institutions to open new bank accounts, and are reconnected with the traditional banking community and their services. Hundreds of dollars can be saved by households partaking in VITA by using the free service instead of commercial tax preparation operators that often charge hundreds of dollars.

Donations are needed by organizations and individuals to support the operation of this valuable program that allows crucial dollars to stay within the household of low and middle-income individuals and families. Those interested in making a donation to help the VITA program reach its goal, can click on the “Donate/Volunteer” tab at www.cr-sdc.org or can contact Social Development Foundation Manager LaToya Jones at 414.906.2823 or ljones@cr-sdc.org.

For more than 50 years, the Social Development Commission has operated as the Community Action Agency for Milwaukee County. SDC serves as a planner, coordinator, and provider of human service programs for low- income individuals and families residing in Milwaukee County. The agency is an intergovernmental commission and is governed by a board of 18 citizens from Milwaukee County, each of whom hold the title of “Commissioner.”