Benjamin Franklin said, “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” For the last three years, I’ve chosen to spend my Monday mornings with the latter.
I just completed my third season as an AARP Tax Aide volunteer at the Waterford Senior Center. After some rigorous training, I was officially cleared to help seniors and lower-income neighbors navigate their filings for free. That means I change hats (or green eye shade)—and serve a different type of client.
In my day-to-day world, I’m often considering ROI, or in the latest marketing speak, ROAS (Return On Ad Spend). But once a week, I get to focus on a different metric: the return on the return.
There are many volunteer opportunities, but few where a little of my time puts money in individuals’ pockets. Sure some of that money is theirs, returned due to overpayment. But frequently, refundable credits based on income and resources are unexpected, pleasant surprises and very meaningful.
This program, coordinated by the AARP Foundation, helps nearly 2 million people a year. For me, it’s a reminder that sometimes the most valuable “equity” we can build is in our own backyard. Honestly? It’s the least taxing work I’ve ever done.
Wishing you a stress-free spring, and many happy “returns.”