PEMC to Host 2026 VITA Kickoff Event
Indianapolis, IN (January 6, 2026) — Purdue Extension Marion County will host its annual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Kickoff Event on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Purdue Extension Marion County (PEMC) office, 1202 E. 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205. The event officially launches the 2026 tax season, while highlighting the continued expansion of free tax preparation services, financial education, and asset-building opportunities across Central Indiana.
Through the IRS-sponsored VITA grant, Purdue Extension has expanded services to eight counties, with two additional county partnerships, resulting in more than 18 VITA sites across Indiana. This growth increases access not only to high-quality, no-cost tax preparation, but also to resources that support long-term financial stability.
In addition to free tax preparation for eligible taxpayers, the VITA Kickoff Event will emphasize Financial Education and Asset Building (FEAB) opportunities. Neighbors will have the opportunity to work with trained volunteers and educators to create a plan for their tax refund, explore savings options, and connect with free financial education programs offered through Purdue Extension. This approach helps ensure tax refunds are used as a tool for greater financial stability rather than short-term relief.
The event will also feature community partners and financial institutions offering information and resources related to banking, direct deposit, credit building, legal assistance, and other supports that strengthen household financial security.
The VITA program is a collaborative effort supported by the Internal Revenue Service and delivered locally through Purdue Extension in partnership with trusted community organizations. Grant-funded partnerships include United Way of Howard and Tipton County, John H. Boner Community Center, Southeast Community Services, Hawthorne Community Center, Oasis Christian Community Development Corporation, and Anderson University. These partnerships allow the program to meet neighbors where they already receive education and services, expanding outreach and reducing barriers to participation.
“All tax returns are prepared by IRS-certified volunteers and reviewed for accuracy,” said Ashley Piland, VITA Lead and Health and Human Sciences Educator at PEMC. “By pairing free tax preparation with financial education and asset-building conversations, we are helping neighbors turn their refunds into opportunities that support long-term financial well-being—at no cost.”
Community members, partner organizations, and media are encouraged to attend the VITA Kickoff Event and learn more about free tax preparation and financial education services available throughout Indiana during the 2026 filing season.
For more information about the VITA program or to find a VITA site near you, please contact Ashley Piland by email at wood246@purdue.edu or by phone at 317-275-9253, for questions regarding VITA site locations, operating dates, and volunteer opportunities.
About Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service (Purdue Extension)
Purdue Extension connects the people of Indiana with research-based education from Purdue University. Serving all 92 counties, Purdue Extension supports individuals, families, businesses, and communities through programs in agriculture, health and human sciences, economic development, and 4-H youth development.
About the VITA Program
The VITA program has a long-standing history rooted in community support and financial empowerment. Launched nationwide by the IRS in 1969, VITA was created to ensure eligible taxpayers could file accurate returns and access key credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC). By partnering with community organizations, colleges, libraries, and nonprofits, VITA sites provide trusted, no-cost tax preparation services led by trained, certified volunteers. These services help strengthen families' financial stability and contribute millions of dollars to local economies each year. Visit https://extension.purdue.edu/vita/index.html to learn more and schedule an appointment.