Call for Volunteers: CWAV Free Tax Clinic
The Poverty Law Advocate (PLA) at CWAV helps people access services throughout the year. One barrier to service for our clients is completing their tax filings. We are looking for volunteers to work virtually to help us meet this need! Volunteers will sign up through CRA to participate in the CWAV Free Tax Clinic for the CRA Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP). Last year 3,810 organizations and 18,970 volunteers helped more than 407,400 individuals nationally. Currently we are meeting less than half the need on Vancouver Island.
As a volunteer, you can choose to complete and file taxes by video conference, by phone, in person (following local public health advice and measures), or by using a drop-off and pick-up option.
Requirements: Police record check required. Willingness to adhere to CRA and CWAV policies including confidentiality. You’ll need a computer with internet access and a phone to help volunteers remotely. If you are willing and able to help people in person (either now or after COVID) you can assist with taxes on paper instead of the computer if you prefer.
Training: CRA provides free software and training including live and recorded webinars and written materials. CWAV staff (Leslie Hall, PLA relief worker) will assist with any other support or training that you may need. You’ll need to adhere to the CRA volunteer roles and responsibilities guidelines they provide, and CWAV policies which we will provide to help protect your work and the client’s privacy.
Time Commitment: Variable and up to you, all year, may choose to not work during tax season.
Number of Positions: 3
How to Participate: Please email Leslie Hall (she/her) at lhall@cwav.org to express your interest and to request or submit a CWAV volunteer application form.
