Removing Barriers So Families Can Move Forward
By Angie Matthiessen, Chief Executive Officer
Every year, as tax season approaches, I’m reminded how something so routine for some can feel overwhelming for others. I’ve had conversations with folks who put off filing because they’re unsure where to start, worried about the cost, or simply afraid of getting it wrong. For many families, taxes aren’t just paperwork—they’re a source of stress that sits quietly in the background, waiting to trip them up.
That’s why I think of tax season as a path. For some, it’s clear and familiar. For others, it’s cluttered with questions, uncertainty, and unnecessary barriers. At United Way Charlotte County (UWCC), our role is simple: help clear that path so people can move forward with confidence.
Through our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, we offer free, reliable tax preparation to qualifying residents who live or work in Charlotte County. For households earning $66,000 or less, VITA can mean having a federal tax return prepared, e-filed, and direct deposited—at absolutely no cost. No hidden fees. No confusing fine print. Just help when it’s needed most.
Last year alone, UWCC officially filed 1,173 federal tax returns through the VITA program—and this year, our goal is to help even more neighbors by reaching 1,500 returns.
What makes this program especially meaningful is what it removes. It removes the cost of professional tax preparation, which can easily run into hundreds of dollars. It removes fear by replacing it with friendly, trained IRS certified volunteers who take the time to explain each step. And it removes barriers by offering appointments right here in our community, in Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda.
We are grateful to Centennial Bank for their longstanding sponsorship and support of the VITA program, and to the Family Services Center and New Life in Christ Church for generously providing the locations that make these services accessible to our community.
We do want to be clear about what we can and cannot prepare. VITA is designed for simple returns, and there are limitations—for example, we cannot accept returns with rental income, self-employment losses, expenses exceeding $35,000, or businesses with employees. Even so, many people qualify and don’t realize it. Often, all it takes is a quick phone call to find out.
Just as important as the service itself are the people who make it possible. Our volunteers are at the heart of VITA. Some are trained tax preparers, while others help with scheduling, intake, and welcoming clients. You don’t need to be a tax expert to make a difference—just someone who wants to help clear the path for a neighbor. Each volunteer hour translates into real savings and real peace of mind for local families.
This program may not apply to you personally—but it almost certainly applies to someone you know. A coworker. A neighbor. A family member. Clearing the path sometimes means sharing information so others can move forward.
If you or someone you know could benefit from free tax preparation—or if you’re interested in volunteering—now is the time to act. Appointments are now open. Call 941-421-7100 or dial 2-1-1 (or 239-433-3900) to schedule or learn more. We’re here to help clear the path, one return at a time. For more information, please visit: unitedwayccfl.org/Barriers
For more information about United Way Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community so all can thrive, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Chief Executive Officer. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.