GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Colorado Mesa University’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is back for the 2026 tax season, offering free, professional tax preparation for eligible community members.
VITA is a national program overseen by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and delivered locally through community partners staffed by trained, certified volunteers. At CMU, the VITA site is led by accounting faculty and supported by accounting students, faculty volunteers and community professionals, including certified public accountants. Additional operational assistance is provided by non-accounting faculty and student volunteers who support client intake, evaluation and translation services.
Last tax season, community participation in CMU’s VITA program increased by 150% compared with the previous year. Returns filed through the program resulted in refunds averaging thousands of dollars back to taxpayers.
Beyond its community impact, the VITA program offers students preparing for careers in accounting and related fields with hands-on learning opportunities. Students work directly with clients under professional supervision, gaining real-world experience during tax season.
“I think programs like VITA are very important for everyone involved. It's a great way for volunteers or students to get hands-on experience working with clients and doing tax returns. It's also a great resource for the community, as well,” said Alleepra Stutzman, president of the CMU Accounting Club. “Everyone needs their taxes done, so being able to offer a free service and help the community is very rewarding.”
Students like Stutzman also benefit from mentorship and professional development opportunities through the program.
“I volunteered last year for VITA, and we got to help so many people. It is rewarding because we are not only getting a great opportunity to learn, but to be able to give back while we do is priceless,” Stutzman said. “It has made me excited for the tax season this year because I know we are going to be able to help so many people.”
CMU's VITA volunteers complete thorough IRS training and certification, and each return undergoes a quality review process before filing to ensure accuracy, compliance and taxpayer confidentiality.
VITA services at CMU will be offered through April 11 and will be located on the second floor of Dominguez Hall. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 970.248.1395.