Every spring, many Americans struggle with filing tax returns, especially low-income families. This year, students from Point Loma Nazarene University volunteered hundreds of hours to offer free tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, in collaboration with Dreams for Change, a nonprofit focused on stabilizing lives and preventing homelessness.
Twenty-four PLNU students volunteered 450 hours to prepare 425 tax returns for low-income families in San Diego County, helping many receive substantial refunds through credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit.
A Partnership for Change
Founded in 2009 by Dr. Teresa Smith, Dreams for Change is a nonprofit that supports individuals and families facing economic challenges through three pathways: Support, Employment, and Financial Assets. The VITA program offers students hands-on experience in tax preparation, deepening their understanding of socio-economic issues.
Twenty-four PLNU students volunteered 450 hours to prepare 425 tax returns for low-income families in San Diego County
Hands-On Learning with Real Impact
For many students, VITA was more than an academic requirement—it was a meaningful experience blending education and service. Ethan Clark shared, “VITA was a phenomenal experience. It was fulfilling to use what I have learned in class to help others who really need it.”
Bradley Miner described the program as “one of the most meaningful experiences of my semester.” Others appreciated the collaborative environment, with Faith Rocha stating, “Working alongside other volunteers and site coordinators created a real sense of teamwork.”
For some, the program helped solidify future career aspirations. Nick Dunn reflected, “VITA helped show me the tangible impact you can make on someone else’s life. Doing VITA gave me a glimpse into how I can best serve others when I start my career in tax after graduation.”
The Emotional Connection
While tax preparation is often seen as a technical task, students discovered a deeper human element in the process. Daniel Avram shared, “Each one of these people looked in my eyes with a smile, with thankfulness, and with joy, that I helped them accomplish something that is a big stressor in their lives.”
Ryan McKenna echoed this sentiment, stating, “It was very cool to see the joy on people’s faces when I was able to tell them they were getting a refund.”
For many, the experience opened their eyes to financial hardships faced by different communities. Maya Gerber noted, “My experience with the VITA program opened my eyes to the financial situation of a diverse group of individuals.”
“VITA helped show me the tangible impact you can make on someone else’s life. Doing VITA gave me a glimpse into how I can best serve others when I start my career in tax after graduation.” – Nick Dunn
Overcoming Challenges & Gaining Confidence
The program wasn’t without its difficulties. Many tax returns required meticulous problem-solving skills, testing students’ ability to navigate complex tax codes. Brighton Schott highlighted the technical and interpersonal benefits, stating, “Although some returns proved to be more complex, the VITA program provided me with the knowledge I needed to assist individuals with their tax-related questions.”
Others found that the program strengthened their interpersonal skills. Lauren Vanhorenbeeck explained, “I learned a lot of things that bettered my knowledge but also people skills. I love serving others, and this was a great opportunity to be a servant of God.”
“Not only did I gain valuable experience, but I was able to tangibly help others using the skills I have learned in class.” – Annika Thayer
Looking Toward the Future
For the past 12 years, accounting majors at PLNU have been required to participate in the VITA program, an initiative led by Professor Steve Cosentino that merges classroom learning with practical experience while fostering connections with the community. While initial reactions often include hesitation, students overwhelmingly express gratitude by the end of tax season, recognizing the impact of their work — not just on their skills but on the lives they’ve touched. Many even choose to continue volunteering beyond graduation, reinforcing a lifelong commitment to service.
Annika Thayer reflected, “Participating in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program was beneficial and eye-opening in both my professional and personal life. Not only did I gain valuable experience, but I was able to tangibly help others using the skills I have learned in class.”
For students like Katie Rust, the experience was profoundly rewarding: “I enjoyed the program and had many positive client experiences.”
Participating in VITA enhances students’ financial literacy, interpersonal skills, and awareness of socio-economic issues. By offering free tax assistance to those in need, they uphold PLNU’s mission to uplift communities through education and service. The lessons learned from VITA will serve as a lasting reminder of the value of applied learning and dedicated service in their future endeavors.
Story written by Marika Tucker
