STC VITA program concludes successful tax season, providing free assistance to RGV residents

South Texas College (STC) concluded, what is being called one of its most successful seasons yet, its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, offering free tax preparation services to qualifying residents across the Rio Grande Valley ahead of the April 15 filing deadline.

Cynthia Sanchez, associate professor of Business Administration and VITA partner coordinator, said this year’s season was one of the most successful it has seen.

“This season has been very successful and busy because we now allowed walk-ins,” Sanchez said. “We have some solid volunteers, and everything went great. I’d say this is the best season we’ve had.”

The free service, coordinated through STC’s Business Administration program and administered by United Way of South Texas in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), provides tax preparation for individuals and families earning $67,000 or less, people with disabilities and taxpayers with limited English proficiency.

Throughout the tax season, trained student volunteers worked alongside faculty and community partners to assist residents with filing their federal income tax returns, a service that not only benefits the community, but also provides valuable hands-on experience for students pursuing careers in business and finance.

Juan Resendez, Business Administration faculty member, said the program offers a unique learning opportunity for students while helping them build confidence and professional skills.

“The VITA program provides numerous benefits for our students,” Resendez said. “Students get to overcome any intimidation they may have with federal income taxes by attending a two-day interactive training where they learn about tax code and work through tax scenarios with other student volunteers and faculty members.”

The training prepares students to pass four certification exams required to volunteer at the VITA site, allowing them to earn certificates issued by the IRS.

 “Our students can now list these IRS certifications and their volunteer experience on their resumes moving forward,” said Resendez.

Beyond professional development, students also experience the satisfaction of serving their community.

“Students get the enjoyment of providing a useful and needed service, free of charge, to community members who otherwise would have had to pay for expensive tax preparation services elsewhere,” he said.

According to Sanchez, the most rewarding aspect of the program is seeing students apply what they learn in the classroom to real-life situations.

“It’s great to see our student volunteers in action and apply their skills,” she said. “I feel that is the most rewarding and successful part of this program.”

The program also expanded accessibility for community members by offering flexible hours.

“This service makes a huge difference for the community,” Sanchez added. “We were open after hours to be flexible and help those who needed it. We’re able to work directly with community members and help them plan for the future.”

For many students, the experience provided both practical knowledge and a deeper appreciation for community service.

Business Administration student and VITA volunteer Marisol Garza said she initially joined the program to expand her understanding of taxes.

“I wanted to learn more about taxes because I am a Business major,” Garza said. “Being able to work hands-on while helping people in the community has really expanded my knowledge.”

She added that connecting with residents made the experience even more meaningful.

“I enjoy helping the community and hearing how grateful people are for the assistance,” she said. “It makes the experience even more rewarding.”

Fellow volunteer Daisy Sanchez said the opportunity allowed her to develop both professional and personal skills.

“I wanted to participate because I wanted to gain real-world experience,” she said. “People are very grateful for our help, especially many of the older adults we assist. This experience has taught me patience and has helped prepare me for the future while adding another valuable skill.”

Aldo Rangel, site coordinator for United Way of South Texas, said the demand for free tax assistance continues to grow throughout the region.

“The number of people seeking tax help is extraordinary,” Rangel said. “Programs like this make it easy for community members to receive quality assistance because all of our volunteers are trained and certified through the IRS.”

Through partnerships with community organizations and hands-on learning opportunities for students, STC’s VITA program continues to make a meaningful impact by providing essential services while preparing students for careers in business, accounting and finance.