Courtesy United Way of Utah County

There are many ways to make a difference in our community, from donating financial resources to participating in a day of service. All of these efforts are crucial to strengthening our community and making sure that everyone has access to the resources they need.

But there is one particular method of making a difference that I’d like to highlight today: consistent, long-term volunteer service.

All of our volunteer efforts are important, and when we dedicate time to volunteer consistently (whether that be once a month or once a week), we have the opportunity to witness firsthand the impact we are making. The chance to build strong relationships with program staff, other volunteers and the recipients of our service benefits everyone involved.

Along with these relationships, another benefit of long-term volunteering is the opportunity to gain new skills and develop hidden talents.

One group of volunteers that exemplifies the dedication and impact of long-term service is our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) team. Each year, dozens of volunteers give hundreds of hours of time to not only learn how to prepare accurate tax returns and prepare for and pass an IRS certification exam but also to help low- and mid-income families learn more about financial wellness and ensure that their tax returns are completed and filed securely.

Many of these volunteers give their precious evening and weekend hours for months on end, dedicating themselves to ensuring that all community members can navigate tax season with confidence. And they don’t just do it once; many VITA volunteers come back year after year to continue their volunteer service.

This month, I’d like to spotlight two exceptional VITA volunteers who have been serving as site coordinators for several years. These volunteers have helped countless families find peace of mind during a stressful season of the year, and their dedication is truly inspirational.

Chad Hunsaker, who has been volunteering with VITA for seven years, started his volunteer journey with Sub for Santa. During his first Sub for Santa season, he learned about the VITA program and decided to volunteer there as well. “I started (by) wanting to set an example for my children about giving at Christmastime,” Chad explains. “We started by delivering gifts to families and then helping with intake and gift sorting. … (When I learned about VITA) I felt the desire to help others by doing taxes for those that need help during tax season.”

When asked why he chooses to keep coming back and volunteering, Chad emphasized the impact he has seen on the families he helps and on his own life. “I keep coming back (because) I have been able to build relationships with other volunteers and those who come to use the service. I love to serve others and know that my service can make their worries and concerns a little lighter. I know that true happiness is achieved by treating others with respect and love.”

Like Chad, Mike Jex has also seen the impact of his service with VITA in the lives of the people he has served over the past seven years. “The VITA program is a wonderful resource for so many people in our community,” Mike said. “So many of the people I’ve been able to assist are amazed that the program exists. I feel I’m able to help provide a valuable service to the community and often feel that I benefit more from participating in the VITA program than those I am able to assist.”

When asked what he enjoys about his volunteer service with VITA, Mike said, “I enjoy the challenge each year of studying and passing the IRS certification exam. I am continuing to learn new aspects of taxes and ways to help those who seek help with preparing their taxes. … Countless taxpayers who I’ve assisted are so appreciative of VITA and the volunteers who give their time in support of the program.”

By giving of their time and talents, Chad and Mike, along with dozens of other long-term volunteers, embody the spirit of living united. They strengthen and empower community members to live happier, healthier lives. They build relationships in a time where connection is sorely needed. And they are making an impact that will last for years to come.

To Chad and Mike and all the other dedicated, compassionate long-term volunteers: thank you. Thank you for sharing your passion and skills with us. Thank you for giving so much of your time to others. Thank you for making a difference.

Bill Hulterstrom is president and CEO of United Way of Utah County. To learn more about long-term volunteer opportunities, please visit unitedwayuc.org.