(WNY News Now) – A wave of community-driven effort returns over $1.5 million to working families, thanks to the United Way’s no-cost Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

Thanks to the help of dedicated volunteers, United Way of Chautauqua County (UWCHQ) returned more than $1.5 million in tax refunds to the community through its facilitation of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

Each year, county residents who qualify can have their taxes prepared at no cost by United Way because of the VITA Program. At the heart of the program are the community volunteers trained by United Way who do the work of preparing the tax returns.

Volunteers logged a total of 1,504 service hours this year, yet the local demand for the program always outpaces capacity. More returns could be prepared by United Way if more community members were to volunteer.

This year, the program assisted 1,300 households across the county by preparing 1,231 federal and 1,264 state tax returns. The average adjusted gross income of participating taxpayers was $31,631 this year — a clear indicator that this program continues to serve those who need it most.

“We are chartered to serve low-to-moderate income taxpayers,” said Joe Kwiatkowski, VITA program coordinator for United Way of Chautauqua County. “That includes residents with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency.”

In addition to filing tax returns, volunteers help maximize eligible tax credits. This year, the program helped county residents claim $431,553 in Earned Income Tax Credits and $186,764 in Child Tax Credits — ensuring that every dollar possible was returned directly to working families.

That impact is only possible because of the volunteers behind the scenes — including longtime preparers Jack Kachermeyer of Dunkirk and Pat Fincher of Jamestown, both over 80 years old, who have been part of the VITA program for more than fifteen years. Every tax season, they show up with determination and a deep belief in the importance of the work. Kachermeyer has been a VITA Volunteer since 2002 when he retired as a meat inspector, long before United Way became the administrator of the program.

“They don’t just bring experience — they bring heart,” said Lisa Sunday, UWCHQ Director of Finance. “Jack and Pat are perfect examples of how service to others doesn’t retire. Their continued dedication is inspiring to both clients and fellow volunteers.”

The goal of United Way and its volunteers is to ensure that 100% of individuals’ refunds are returned to the taxpayers locally. This year, the VITA Program collectively saved served households more than $325,000 in tax preparation fees.

“The VITA program reflects the very core of United Way’s mission — uniting people and resources to improve lives and advance the common good,” said Amy Rohler, UWCHQ Executive Director. “By helping families access the tax credits and refunds they’ve earned, we’re not just offering a service — we’re strengthening financial security, mobilizing community action, and ensuring that more of our neighbors can thrive. It’s a powerful example of what happens when we come together to tackle real-time challenges with compassion and collaboration.”

Appointments are scheduled each year beginning in late January through April and are booked by 211 Western New York, a free and confidential service funded in part by United Way.

Anyone interested in volunteering to prepare taxes as part of next year’s VITA program, contact United Way of Chautauqua County by calling the Jamestown office at 716-483-1561 or emailing volunteer@uwayscc.org.