After attending a Building Native Communities-Financial Skills for Families workshop on the Earned Income Tax Credit and free tax prep sites, Lisa Peters, Housing Counselor at the Squaxin Island Tribe took the lead on creating a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site at her tribe. She felt it was something important that her community should address.

The Squaxin Island site has been in the works for about 3 years now. After submitting the required paperwork to Seattle IRS employee, Tanya Hill, Squaxin Island was able to receive the tax software. Volunteers must take online training, pass tests and receive certification to prepare returns through our site. With five volunteers, the site was visited by over 30 families. The site offers free tax preparation prepared by well trained supportive volunteers.

Tax volunteers working at computer VITA site

The success of the site has largely rested on successful outreach through word of mouth, newsletters, flyers, and referrals from others who have used the sight; dedicated volunteers; and support from Tribal Council.