RIT Accounting Students Volunteer During Tax Season

Since 2016, the volunteer program Creating Assets, Savings and Hope (CASH) has had over 123 Rochester area college students complete 1,343 tax returns for families in need.

This tax season, students from Saunders College of Business at Rochester Institute of Technology are continuing to support their community through free tax return services with CASH. Hannah Springer, an accounting student, helped with CASH for the first time this year.

“All throughout high school, I took every opportunity I could to volunteer. I wanted to continue to volunteer in college. This is something entirely different and it relates to my major. Basically, every weekend that I can, I head to downtown Rochester to the central library to volunteer,” said Hannah. “I enjoy it.”

Students are encouraged to participate in CASH’s year-round volunteer service as part of the experiential learning opportunities offered at Saunders. Many volunteer positions are available, including front desk support, CASH advisors, and tax preparers. No accounting experience is needed to participate. Volunteers register with Volunteer Hub, complete the online training, and sign up for the shift(s) that they want.

“I would definitely recommend this to other students because it’s such a good experience,” said Hannah. “I feel prepared for future accounting classes, and it prepares students for future internships and jobs. It’s a lot of fun as well!”

Those looking to participate in the program should contact program manager Ellen Oberton for questions about the process or Philip Gelsomino for training manuals and study books.

Accounting programs at Saunders integrate the newest technology with traditional business principles to teach a broad skill set that will benefit students in their practice. Alongside the #6 ranked Management Information Systems program in the nation, Saunders accounting programs ensure students are trained in and have experience with accounting information systems. Saunders offers Accounting and Accelerated Dual Degree in Accounting undergraduate programs, as well as an MBA and MS in Accounting and Accounting and Financial Analytics Advanced Certificates.