Giving back is a mantra for all volunteers. But few give back in quite as literal of a way as one group of tax preparers.

Last year, the River Center’s Money Matters program helped about 300 local individuals and families through its free tax preparation service. That effort helped return just under $400,000 in refunds and credits.

While the volume of those being helped is expected to stay about the same this year, opportunities for new tax credits have grown exponentially since last year.

To get a head-start on the action, the program is looking for at least three new members to add to its volunteer staff, which will start doing returns on Jan. 20.

Volunteer tax preparers will work with program coordinator Larry Schwartz to receive an IRS certification through an online program either by Jan. 20 or as soon as possible. Volunteers will be asked to work at least once a week for three hours through April 15.

The three weekly tax sessions run Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 12:30 to 3 p.m. Typically, three to four volunteers are scheduled for each session.

Schwartz and other experienced volunteers are available during each session to help newer volunteers answer questions. An interview is also conducted with each potential filer to help match needs to a volunteer’s experience level.

“You absolutely do not need accounting or tax experience,” said Schwartz. “I can train anyone who has basic skills. I work one-on-one with all our volunteers to train them to find the answers.”

If you’d like to help, or would like more information, contact Schwartz at 525-3312 or phcfinancial@ yahoo.com.