2025 VITA Impact Report

Written By Heather Hutchison

A Record-Breaking Tax Season with United Way’s VITA Program

This past tax season, Heart of West Michigan United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program helped thousands of families keep more of their hard-earned money—providing no-cost, high-quality tax preparation services across Kent, Ottawa, and Allegan counties.

Since 2003, VITA has helped more than 135,000 taxpayers claim over $131 million in refunds, strengthening financial stability for families and fueling our local economy. This year was no exception—our impact reached new heights.

Tax Season 2024 at a Glance

  • 9,377 federal and state returns prepared at 17 sites

  • $9.1 million in federal and state refunds returned to the community

  • 834 families claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), one of the most powerful tools for lifting families out of poverty

  • 208 volunteers gave more than 8,000 hours, a value of $280,000 in donated time

  • 94% of clients were satisfied or very satisfied with their experience

  • 99% would use the service again and recommend it to others

Expanding Access Across West Michigan

This year, we expanded VITA from 9 to 17 sites, making it easier for families across the region to access services. Every site was ADA-accessible, and several locations had bilingual volunteers to better serve Spanish-speaking households. Through our partnership with 211, clients could easily schedule appointments and access MyFreeTaxes.com, a secure online platform for filing returns virtually.

Volunteers at the Heart of VITA

The success of VITA would not be possible without our dedicated volunteers. From first-year preparers to seasoned site coordinators, their commitment to helping neighbors file taxes accurately and with dignity made all the difference. As one volunteer shared, “This is truly one of the most rewarding things that I do, and I think this season was the best yet!”

Changing Lives, One Return at a Time

For many families, VITA is about more than just filing taxes—it’s about dignity, fairness, and peace of mind. One client shared: “Such friendly knowledgeable volunteers. This service saves me so much money. Thank you!”

Thank You

To the volunteers, site hosts, and partners who made this tax season possible—thank you. Together, we are building a stronger, more financially stable West Michigan.

Learn more about our VITA program or how you can get involved at hwmuw.org/VITA.

Heather Hutchison
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2023–24 Impact Report