Tax program for seniors needs volunteers

Bill Kozel says he's looking for eager volunteers to help with a free tax program to assist senior citizens in Columbia County.

"This is a nationwide effort AARP does every year," said Kozel, a fifth-year volunteer for the program and a volunteer district coordinator for AARP Tax-Aide.

The Columbia County Senior Center, at 5913 Euchee Creek Drive in Grovetown, is one of 12 locations in the Augusta area where the tax program will be offered.

Volunteers, Kozel said, should be at least 18 years old and available to work during the day for at least four hours per week.

Training will last four to five days, and taxes will be done electronically during the tax season from Feb. 1 to April 15 of 2005.

The deadline to sign up is Jan. 8.

Kozel said volunteers will prepare local, state and federal taxes for residents age 60 and older.

"No experience is necessary," he said about the program, which is sponsored in conjunction with the Internal Revenue Service.

"All they need to know is how to use a computer," he said.

Kozel said last year's program had a turnout of 35 volunteers, and this year he hopes to exceed that amount.

"We're trying to get more volunteers so we can help more people," he said. "This is a program that has been in appearance for a long time and it's increased for a long time. Volunteers really enjoy it and they come back every year."

To find out tax sites or for more information, call Kozel at 210-3048.