Each month, we highlight one of our dedicated volunteers, who is helping us to make a difference in the community. Meet our October 2021 Volunteer of the Month!
When most people think of tax time, they don’t normally think of it as a chance to change people’s lives. But for Anna Chandisingh, who volunteers at WoodGreen’s Income Tax Clinic as a Tax Preparer, she helps people to better their lives by helping them to file their taxes.
As a tax preparer, Anna assists vulnerable, marginalized, and low-income individuals in the community with their taxes. By filing their taxes, the individuals can access vital financial benefits, such as tax refunds and child care benefits, which can help them to afford essential items like food.
Anna believes the work of the tax preparation team is a significant benefit to the community by improving the quality of life of clients. Being able to access benefits and or a refund allows clients to move steps closer to financial security and empowerment.
“Volunteering with WoodGreen has given me a renewed sense of purpose, especially amidst a year of uncertainty. Working alongside the great team of volunteers and seeing the positive impact of our work has energized me and ignited a passion for helping others,” says Anna.
Being a part of WoodGreen’s community has also helped Anna to realize that she would like to switch careers and work more with marginalized groups in the future.
“It has re-affirmed for me how much I value helping others,” she says. “This is where I find the most meaning.”