In connection with its ongoing effort to promote members’ interest in volunteer opportunities, the Taxation Section has assembled a large team of volunteer trainers to assist the IRS in tax return preparation training at local military installations in early 2004.

The request for assistance came from the IRS National Education Coordinator, who heads the Service’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

Under the auspices of VITA and JAG (Judge Advocate General), active and retired military personnel are offered free income tax preparation services. The IRS is understaffed this year to train on site for this program and has reached out to section members for help. The section expects to provide more than 40 volunteer trainers.

The section is also actively supporting the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program’s 9/11 relief effort. The section is providing lawyer mentors to give advice on general, estate, and gift taxes as well as nonprofit issues.

The section continues to staff the Pro Bono Program’s monthly Advice and Referral Clinics with tax attorneys.

The section has given community outreach opportunities a high profile over the past year. These efforts have resulted in a significant increase in the number of volunteers. The section has implemented its appeals for volunteer participation through its newsletter, e-mail, and luncheon meeting announcements.

In addition, the section is assembling a database of volunteer opportunities for tax practitioners that will be available on the Section’s Web page and for hard copy distribution at section events or through appropriate mailings. Another planned use of the database is the development of a brochure, Web site, and "hotline" information for persons in the community seeking tax assistance.

For more information, or to participate in the Taxation Sections community outreach activies, contact Serena G. Simons, community outreach coordinator, at 202-344-4599 or sgsimons@venable.com.