The Internal Revenue Service provides ESC with the free software and training to do free electronic tax filing for low-income families and individuals.  

This year's training dates will be held on January 3rd and 4th. The training will consist of hands on training using Tax Wise software for electronic filing, instruction on tax law and an online exam. Lunch will be provided on each training day.

Volunteers will work at various VITA sites throughout the area. Locations include Northpark Mall in Joplin, ESC's outreach office in Neosho, the Carthage Adult Literacy Center and the Americal Legion in Noel.

If you are interested in volunteering you will need to fill out an interest form. A member of our staff will then contact you with more details about the training.

For a copy of the interest form, please contact a member of ESC's staff at any of our outreach offices. For more information about the program, please contact Suzanne Becker at (417)451-2206 ext. 103.

Enrollment for ESC's CHANCE program will begin on November 15th, 2010. Space is limited and classes fill up quickly, so interested individuals should act quickly.

The CHANCE program is open to homeless individuals who are able to work 30+ hours a week, but are currently unemployed or underemployed. Through the program, these homeless individuals receive employment assistance to help them succeed in their careers. 

Classes will begin Monday, November 29th and end Friday, December 10th at the Frisco Building in Joplin. Class times are from 8:00 to 4:30 each day.

Applicants to the program must provide a photo I.D., Social Security card, proof of homelessness and proof of income. Those applying must complete the interview process for possible consideration into the program.

For more information or to apply, please contact Jennifer Pliler at (417)623-0059.