On the heels of one of the most successful tax seasons on record for the United Way Suncoast’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation awarded a generous grant of $60,000 for program growth in Sarasota County. This past tax season, Suncoast’s VITA program in Sarasota grew 8% over the prior year, which is exceptional considering VITA programs across the country experienced a decline overall. The grant will help support a dedicated VITA Program Coordinator for Sarasota County, a position that is critical to increasing the number of individuals served through this program. In addition, United Way Suncoast will expand program marketing during tax season, technology upgrades and additional training for volunteers. United Way Suncoast coordinates the recruitment and training of more than 40 IRS-certified volunteers in Sarasota County who work with low-to-moderate income individuals and families with a goal to increase the number of residents applying for and receiving Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) and Child Tax Credits.

United Way Suncoast