February 03, 2026
Linda Blaser
Free VITA tax preparation service offers students, alums real-life experience
For the second year, IRS-certified students and alumni from Lake Forest College is providing free, in-person tax-preparation services to qualifying community members filing 2025 returns this spring in a program that benefits both the community and Lake Forest College students.
Alumna Paulina Argomaniz ’25 served as a Business Operations Assistant for VITA at Lake Forest College last year—an experience she found “impactful” for offering her both an opportunity to provide a community service as well as gain impactful and vital professional development experience while she was still a student.
“The core of our work involved providing free tax assistance to individuals and families, which was incredibly fulfilling,” she said. “The skills I developed have had a lasting effect on my career trajectory; the ability to manage tasks efficiently, communicate clearly, and apply a meticulous approach to my work are all directly attributable to my time there.”
In last year’s pilot program, Lake Forest College volunteers helped 225 individuals file their income taxes on time and with a personal touch.
“It was an invaluable period of learning that continues to shape my professional approach long after graduation,” the business major said.
Vice President for Career Advancement and Community Engagement Jackie Slaats describes last year’s launch of the VITA program at Lake Forest College as an “incredible” success.
“The dedication and teamwork of our students, faculty, and staff in preparing for the VITA program, coupled with the professionalism and community spirit displayed during client visits, is a real point of pride for the College,” Slaats said. “It’s fun to see our students gain valuable career skills and experience in such a meaningful way. We look forward to this year’s program being even more successful as community awareness grows.”
The Lake Forest College Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) 2026 Program will assist filers with a gross income of less than $67,000, military taxpayers, persons with disabilities, and international students.
Eligible tax filers can schedule a one-hour appointment between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sundays from February 8 through April 12, 2026 (no appointments March 8 and 15) in the Donnelley and Lee Library on Middle Campus, 555 N. Sheridan Rd., Lake Forest, Illinois. Appointments must be made in advance, no walk-in appointments. Register here. More information on the VITA program can be found here.
VITA is an IRS initiative that has operated for over 50 years, providing free tax preparation for underserved communities across the country. Lake Forest College, led by business faculty member Dave Jordan, is offering this service to the community with the help of dozens of students, faculty, staff, and alumni volunteers.