IRS Names Franklin Community Center ‘National New Partner of the Year’ as Free Tax Assistance Program 

Franklin Community Center (FCC) has received the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) prestigious New Partner of the Year Award, a national honor recognizing excellence, innovation, and an outstanding commitment to serving individuals and families in need through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

The award recognizes Franklin Community Center’s dedication to making free, reliable tax preparation accessible to those who need it most. Through VITA, IRS-certified volunteers provide free tax preparation and secure electronic filing for eligible individuals and families, including low- to moderate-income households, seniors, people with disabilities, and taxpayers with limited English proficiency.

For many households, a tax refund can make a meaningful difference in covering rent, groceries, utility bills, and other essential expenses. By eliminating the cost of professional tax preparation, the VITA program helps residents keep more of their money and connect with the financial resources available to them.

Last year, FCC’s VITA program helped nearly 500 Saratoga-area residents navigate tax season, generating more than $1 million in tax refunds for the local community. Refunds averaged approximately $4,500 per family, providing critical financial support to households across the region.

The national recognition underscores the importance of this work and the dedicated volunteers who make it possible. Now, FCC is looking to build on that success by recruiting additional community members to join its VITA team for the upcoming tax season. FCC welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds. No previous tax preparation or financial experience is required. Volunteers receive comprehensive training and IRS certification, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to help local residents file their taxes accurately and securely.

“Receiving this national recognition is a tremendous honor, but what matters most is the difference this program makes for our neighbors,” said Mary Beth McGarrahan, Development Director at Franklin Community Center. “A tax refund can provide a family with some much-needed breathing room, whether that means catching up on bills, putting food on the table, or covering other essential expenses. We’re looking for community members who want to make a tangible difference. You don’t need to be a tax expert to help — we’ll provide the training and support you need to become part of this important work.”

For more information, visit www.franklincommunitycenter.org/programs/free-tax-assistance.