Announcement
Elise, NY Intern
Photo: Elise
From the start, Elise has brought an open mind and positive attitude to her internship with the Economic Empowerment department (EE). Elise has supported the EE team during the IRC in NY's tax preparation and assistance season for clients. She was excited to learn about the EE team's process to ensure clients are aware of their tax returns.
Elise was busy at the IRC in the NY office, being a point person on Fridays to support VITA tax preparers during their one-on-one tax prep sessions with clients. Elise was integral to client outreach, assisting with scheduling and managing appointments, answering questions about the documents needed to bring, going over covid protocols, and reminding clients of their appointments. Elise's plan consisted of ensuring clients were up to date on the process and ready to meet their tax preparer. Moreover, Elise informed clients about the various EE services such as free financial coaching, credit-building loans, etc.
Elise explained how it was not easy for some clients to hear if they were ineligible for specific resources. Still, the EE team ensured clients had access to alternative pathways or referrals. Another challenge Elise encountered was assisting clients with access to technology and understanding the financial components necessary for the tax preparers to provide full support.
Despite these challenges, Elise has found a deep sense of community working with her EE colleagues. She has enjoyed being a part of the office and shares that she felt supported. Elise was also happy to hear about the vast services the IRC in NY provides to clients. With the high demand for tax filing support, Elise and the team were always excited when a client got a significant return, which is always a delightful outcome!