No matter how bad things get, you can always count on the generosity of Americans to help those in need. In every American community, individuals step up to champion numerous causes by offering time, money and/or services. This year, you can help your neighbors and community by volunteering to provide free tax help.

The Internal Revenue Service is looking for individuals to help prepare tax returns during the tax filing season. Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs, individuals can give free tax help to low-to-moderate income taxpayers, senior citizens and those with disabilities. It’s a great way to give back to your community.

Don’t think you have the expertise to help? Think again. You don’t need previous experience because volunteers receive specialized training and can serve in other capacities beside preparing free tax returns.

In addition, the IRS provides free tax law training, e-file training and all materials need to offer free tax help to those who need it. Not opnly that, tax help volunteers can pretty much work their own hours within the guidelines. Volunteers are expected to work 3 – 5 hours per week from mid-January through the income tax deadline, which is April 17, 2012. You should also know that the sites chosen are usually in your community centers, schools, libraries and other convenient locations.

Last year, more than 88,000 Americans made a difference by providing free tax help, preparing more than 3 million tax returns.

Why not consider helping your community by offering free tax help. Not only will you be helping your community, you will truly be making a difference in someone else’s life.

Isn’t that what Americans have always been about?

More information about the Volunteer Tax program can be found at IRS.gov.