Sunday News

Volunteering potential for tax deductions

There might be tax advantages to volunteering.

Americans who donate their time and service might be able to receive tax deductions from the federal government, according to the RGK Center for Philanthropy and Community Service.

Some of the costs associated with volunteering include mileage and other travel expenses, paper, copying, convention attendance fees, parking and uniforms (if the volunteer purchases his or her own). These deductions apply ONLY if you are NOT reimbursed for these expenses by the organization you are assisting, and if you are itemizing on your tax form.

If you have questions about your situation, please consult a tax professional or download IRS Publication 526: Charitable Contributions for information on this topic.

nThe Center for Community Peacemaking will train volunteers for its Circles of Support and Accountability program. Free training will be held 6 to 9 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Lancaster Friends Meeting, 110 Tulane Terrace. For more information or to register by Wednesday, contact Deirdre Foley Citro at 940-8955, or accountabilitycircles@ccp.org.

nChurch World Service Immigration & Refugee Program seeks volunteers to transport newly arrived refugees to appointments in Lancaster. Volunteers will use their cars to provide transportation to medical appointments, the Social Security office, clothing banks and job-related trainings. Refugees may also need help to learn how to use public transportation or to walk to future follow-up appointments. Varied time commitments are needed. Ideally, availability would accommodate at least one appointment per week. For more information, please contact Leslie Roe at volunteerlanc@churchworldservice.org or at 358-9275.

nThe Humane League of Lancaster County needs volunteers to help make sure the animals have what they need while they are at the shelter. Flexible and short-term opportunities are available. If interested, contact Lauren Monti, volunteer coordinator, at 393-6551, ext. 308, or volunteer@humaneleague.com.

nAseraCare Hospice needs volunteers to make crafts for patients and their families. Volunteers must be able to work on their own and deliver items to the office or locations. This is an ideal project for Scout and senior groups or individuals. Call Pat Henry at 285-2039.

Nonprofit organizations in Lancaster County are encouraged to publish volunteer needs in this column. For a copy of submission guidelines or if you have questions about volunteering in Lancaster County, call the United Way Volunteer Center at 824-8127, fax 394-6118, email volunteer@uwlanc.org or visit volunteersolutions.org/lancaster. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Adrienne Washington is director of the United Way of Lancaster County Volunteer Center.