Each year, the Creating Assets, Savings, & Hope (CASH) Program at Madison House plays a critical role in expanding access to free, reliable tax preparation across Charlottesville. Through its partnership with the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, CASH helps individuals and families file accurate tax returns—often unlocking refunds that make a tangible difference in their lives.

This year, the program has grown in both scope and reach. According to Martha Trujillo, CASH & VITA Coalition Director, CASH added a new community partner: the International Rescue Committee (IRC). This partnership has enabled the program to expand farther north in Charlottesville, reaching new populations that may otherwise lack access to tax preparation services.

Hannah Furrow, Economic Empowerment Supervisor of the IRC shared a benefit of this partnership, saying, “These efforts enable families from over 100 nations to set financial goals, grow assets, and boost income, contributing to stronger communities across the U.S.”

This new site has a goal of completing at least 50 tax returns for residents this season, a goal made possible in large part by UVA student volunteers who travel to the site every Wednesday and two Sundays (February 15 and March 15) during the season, and with IRC’s steadfast commitment to the VITA Program.

This year has presented unique challenges because of the inclement weather in recent weeks. Reporting strong participation numbers is essential to sustain sites and to secure future grant funding. Outreach is a constant priority, and while CASH typically markets by placing flyers throughout the community, snow and ice have made this difficult. As a result, the program has adapted by placing additional informational materials in storefront and building windows.

CASH draws clients through multiple channels. Individuals can visit in-person sites, such as the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission, University Baptist Church, and, now, the International Rescue Committee. Others connect get connected with services via the tax program’s phone line (434-297-9762). While the primary tax season runs from January through April, services are offered year-round at Madison House. Martha, the director, assists with roughly 200 returns outside the formal CASH season.

Looking ahead, the program is exploring a partnership with a graduate program, such as McIntire’s M.S. in Accounting, to handle more complex returns, potentially allowing those clients to select their own appointment times. In fact, anyone can fill out this form to receive a link to a free program to file their taxes and add to CASH’s numbers.

The program’s impact on the Charlottesville community is significant and UVA students are the backbone of that work. Head Program Director Lily Egenrieder, now in her fourth year with CASH, emphasizes the importance of volunteer contributions.

“While I’ve taken on more responsibility each year through higher level roles,” says Lily, “it is important to remember that the success of our program relies on the direct work of our volunteers.”

Head Program Director Saahas Gowda echoes this sentiment, reflecting on the relationships built through the program. When asked about his favorite memories, he shared, “Delivering large returns for clients (and working through some difficult ones) comes to mind, but I most remember weekly rides last spring with one of my fellow shift leaders, Abby. The program also offers a nice opportunity to meet people here at UVA, and I certainly appreciate that.”

Both Lily and Sahaas credit CASH with shaping skills that extend beyond tax preparation. After graduation, both HPDs will be consulting, Lily with Oliver Wyman and Saahas with Bain & Company. Both point to the program as instrumental in teaching them how to solve complex problems, collaborate with others, and commit meaningfully to service and hard work.

Despite working with hundreds of clients each season, the program remains deeply personal.

Lily recalls one interaction that left a lasting impression. “I was called in to a shift to help handle a difficult return with a woman whose spouse had passed away that year,” Lily says. “After a lot of hard work and double (and triple) checking our numbers, we were able to help her file and the return was enough for her to be able to take time off from work to process her loss. She was crying and hugged me, and being able to see how my work made a direct impact on someone’s life was really special.”

Through expansion, adaptability, and the dedication of UVA students, the CASH program continues to demonstrate how technical skills when paired with empathy and service can create lasting impact in the Charlottesville community.

To learn more about the VITA program offered through the Cville Tax Aid Coalition or to make an appointment online, visit the Madison House website.

By Cecilia Murphy