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With a busy job as a program manager for a well-known high tech company, it would seem that Kalpita Deobhakta has her hands full. But that doesn't stop her from volunteering her time to programs like the Earned Income Tax Credit Campaign, supported by United Way of King County.

With a busy job as a program manager for a well-known high tech company, it would seem that Kalpita Deobhakta has her hands full. But that doesn't stop her from volunteering her time to programs like the United Way of King County's Free Tax Preparation Campaign.

United Way and its partners offer free tax preparation services in multiple languages at numerous sites throughout King County. This extremely successful program continues to see increases in both the number of people served and the amount of tax credits filed for low-income wage earners. United Way invests in the program as part of its efforts to help low-income families and individuals build assets and increase economic self-sufficiency. Kalpita volunteered at the Rainier Beach once a week. "My passion lies in social services," Kalpita explained, "I'm just looking for ways I can make a difference for people in need."

A transplant from the suburbs of Toronto, she filed her first U.S. federal tax return in 2003. After completing it, she realized that other people might find the procedure confusing or daunting. As a tax volunteer she helps people determine if they qualify for Earned Income Tax Credit and file to receive it. "So many of the people that come in don't know what EITC is, or don't realize that they qualify for it," Kalpita said. "I remember one woman who had two young children and worked two full time jobs but still made a small amount of money. She was so grateful to learn about EITC. She got back more than $2,000 in tax credits!"

When asked if she would consider volunteering for the Free Tax Preparation Campaign again, she gave a resounding "yes!" Kalpita elaborated that United Way's staff is very inspiring and what she liked most about her volunteer work was that it is easy to measure its impact on people and the community.

Kalpita plans on doing other volunteer activities throughout the year and using United Way's Web site to find those opportunities. "I love United Way of King County's Web site - it's easy to use, flexible and helps me find the right volunteer match for my busy schedule and interests. For me, it's all about connecting to a diverse group of people and helping our community remain strong."

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