Volunteers are the backbone of the Tax Program Published Sept. 22, 2008 By Melissa Barlow Spangdahlem Air Base Tax Center SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Every spring, whether we like it or not, we have an obligation to file our income tax returns with federal and state governments. For some, it's a matter of filling out paperwork and anxiously awaiting refunds or grudgingly sending in more money. For many individuals, filing an income tax return can be a daunting and complicated task. At the Spangdahlem Air Base Tax Center, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance tax preparers are available to help reduce stress., These volunteers, however, must be trained to prepare for the job prior to the tax center opening for the new tax year. Every year, an agent from the Internal Revenue Service visits Spangdahlem AB to conduct intensive and thorough training to ensure that the volunteers are equipped to prepare tax returns varying in complexity. The volunteers come from the base community. They are active duty members, civilian employees and family members who live and work on base. Volunteering at the tax center can be a rewarding experience. "It feels good to be able to provide my services to the local community and gain valuable experience at the same time," said Angela Sims, a tax center volunteer. No matter the reason for volunteering, whether to provide a significant service to the community, gain valuable job skills, or simply to look for an opportunity to keep busy, any level of experience is appreciated and needed. For those who successfully complete the training and volunteer at the tax center, they become certified by the IRS as qualified tax preparers. Additionally, the Red Cross reimburses registered volunteers for any daycare expenses incurred while volunteering. For those individuals interested in volunteering their time or for more information, contact Melissa Barlow at 452-1040 or at Bldg. 125 to sign up.