FORT MYERS, Fla. - s4story -- In a powerful demonstration of community collaboration, United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades' Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program generated more than $13.5 million in total economic impact for Southwest Florida during the 2026 tax season.

A dedicated team of 240 IRS-certified volunteers prepared and filed 8,236 tax returns, securing $11.1 million in refunds for local households. An additional $2.4 million in savings and value – from waived tax preparation fees and volunteer service – further boosted the program's overall community impact.

The United Way VITA program provides free tax preparation and e-filing services to households earning $70,000 or less, helping ensure they receive critical tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and American Opportunity Tax Credit. For many families, these refunds provide essential financial stability and can mean the difference between making ends meet and facing hardship.

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This year, VITA operated at 32 locations across the region and logged more than 16,000 volunteer hours. The program also expanded its reach with the launch of the IRS Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program, enabling services for more seniors and individuals with higher income levels while remaining rooted in its core mission.

In addition, a new partnership with Florida Gulf Coast University's College of Business is strengthening future impact. Through this collaboration, all College of Business students are now required to pass the VITA Basic Tax Knowledge test, ensuring graduates have a foundational understanding of taxes and their real-world impact on individuals and families.

"I couldn't be prouder of what our volunteers and partners made possible this season," said Mary Meador, Senior Volunteer Engagement and VITA Program Manager at United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades. "Tax season can feel overwhelming for so many people, but our team shows up every day ready to make it easier and less stressful. We see firsthand the relief and confidence families walk away with – and that's what makes this work so incredibly meaningful."

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The program's success is made possible through the support of a wide network of community partners, including financial institutions, schools, libraries, churches, youth centers and nonprofit agencies.

Year-round VITA services are available in Bonita Springs, Estero-San Carlos, Lehigh Acres, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Port Charlotte, LaBelle and Immokalee. A virtual filing option is also available at GetYourRefund.org/UWLee. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 239-433-3900 or visiting UnitedWayLee.org/FreeTaxPrep. Households earning under $70,000 who prefer to file independently can do so for free at MyFreeTaxes.com.

Community members are invited to serve as tax preparers, greeters or interpreters. To learn more or get involved, visit UnitedWayLee.org/Vita-Volunteer.