Boston Tax Help Coalition: Partner Spotlight

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~ Boston Tax Help Coalition Celebrates Successful 2024 Tax Season, Thanks Partners and Recognizes Outstanding Community Leader

The Boston Tax Help Coalition (BTHC) has once again proven its commitment to serving the community by completing nearly 11,500 tax returns and putting over $17 million back into the pockets of low to moderate-income families in the Boston area. This marks a 12% increase from last year's tax season, with over 11,000 clients served across 31 community-based tax sites. Seven of these sites are still actively preparing taxes.

The tireless efforts of the BTHC have been made possible through the support and dedication of their partners. The coalition is grateful for their contributions and is always pleased to receive positive feedback from the communities they serve. One such example is Joane Guzman, operations manager at Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD), who was recently presented with the Supervisor of the Year Award during Northeastern University's Heart of CommUNITY awards.

Northeastern University recognized community leaders who have partnered with them to empower residents in the neighborhoods surrounding their Boston campus. Joane was honored with this award for her outstanding work at ABCD's Roxbury/North Dorchester Neighborhood Opportunity Center, which operates 11 BTHC tax sites. Under her leadership, these sites secured over $7 million in state and federal tax returns this season.

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Despite being a humble individual who shies away from the spotlight, Joane was shocked and grateful to receive this recognition. She manages a team of nine, including five volunteers, and has been in her role for 17 years. She credits her success to her dedicated staff and volunteers who make it all possible.

In an interview following the award ceremony, Joane expressed her gratitude towards Northeastern students who volunteered at her site during tax season. She described them as compassionate and understanding individuals who made it a privilege to work with them. For Joane, this award signifies that the students had a positive experience at her site, which is a rare feeling when it comes to doing taxes.

As a Boston native of Haitian descent, Joane's work is heavily influenced by her mother's willingness to always help others. Through her role at ABCD, she is able to teach others how to advocate for themselves and let them know that they have a voice. She understands the challenges of tax season, especially for those living paycheck to paycheck, and believes that the money saved on tax preparation and returns can make a significant impact in their households.

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Joane's tax site goes beyond just preparing taxes. They also offer additional programs such as financial education and career coaching to their community. She encourages her clients to use their tax returns as a launch pad towards achieving their financial goals. Her advice? "Speak to a coach, get career counseling. Tax time opens up opportunities for families to save for things like a home or education. The Earned Income Credit and Child Tax Credit can really add up and make a difference."

The BTHC is grateful for Joane's dedication and hard work in serving her community. Her efforts, along with those of other partners, have positively impacted the lives of many residents in Boston. The coalition strives to create an enriching experience for its partners by providing support and making them feel valued.

In addition to her role in tax preparation, Joane also runs her own business as a travel advisor and is a proud cat mom to Miku. Congratulations on your well-deserved award, Joane! Your commitment and passion for helping others are truly inspiring.

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