Program Associate (part-time)

MU TITLE: Temporary Professional

LOCATION: Coverage of Jackson, Clay and Platte Counties – Independence, MO

The University of Missouri (MU) Office of Extension and Engagement’s distinct land-grant mission is to improve lives, communities, and economies by producing relevant, reliable, and responsive educational strategies throughout Missouri. Our dedicated and knowledgeable faculty and staff collaborate with researchers and community leaders to develop and deliver programs that address the needs of Missourians including: educational attainment; environmental concerns; community, economic, business and workforce development; global food systems; and health systems. For more information about MU Extension and Engagement, please visit https://extension.missouri.edu/  

The University of Missouri Extension offers free tax preparation and financial education through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. These programs serve taxpayers with low to moderate income (VITA) or 60 years of age and up (TCE). VITA/TCE also serves people with disabilities or limited English proficiency. Taxpayers are assisted by volunteers who are trained and certified through the IRS according to their role. Volunteers manage tax sites, prepare taxes, and answer taxpayer questions. The Missouri Taxpayer Education Initiative (MOTax) is a statewide Extension program that provides training to volunteers and free tax assistance to more than 10,000 people each year.  

This position will assist Extension personnel in the coordination and implementation of the VITA/TCE programs. A combination of in-person and virtual (remote) work is anticipated. Multiple software platforms are used to facilitate VITA/TCE and other Extension programs – the Program Associate will be expected to learn and use them regularly. The Program Associate must have the ability to travel and work flexible hours. Evenings and weekends may be required to fulfill assigned responsibilities, particularly during the tax season.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES 

• Assist Extension personnel in promoting the VITA/TCE programs.  
• Assist Extension personnel in identifying and recruiting partner organizations to support VITA/TCE. 
• Recruit volunteers to work at VITA/TCE site(s) as needed. 
• Assist Extension personnel with volunteer orientation, training, and support. 
• Assist program/site coordinators to equip tax sites, which may include procurement and delivery of equipment and supplies. 
• Assist with volunteer and taxpayer scheduling. 
• Return calls and emails from program participants. 
• Provide information about the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and other tax credits. 
• Assist Extension personnel in coordinating personal finance education for VITA/TCE clients. 
• Assist Extension personnel with program evaluation. 
• Maintain good relationships with both campus and off-campus Extension personnel, partners in local communities, and key media allies. 
• Conduct all activities in accordance with the Civil Rights Acts, Title IX, Rehabilitation, Americans with Disabilities Act and local, state and region affirmative action plans.  
• As with all positions, involvement with other duties and responsibilities may be expected in order to support the mission and purpose of MU Extension. 

LEADERSHIP RECEIVED AND EXERCISED 

Administrative supervision is received from the MU Extension VITA Specialist(s).  This position is not responsible for supervision. 

CORE ATTRIBUTES FOR MU EXTENSION STAFF 

• Exhibit a high personal standard of excellence, be an effective team player, and demonstrate inclusivity, civility, and respect for all. 
• Engage stakeholders and learners; maintain positive interpersonal relationships and exhibit effective written and oral communication skills. 
• Operate with minimal guidance and be a self-directed learner who is flexible and adaptable to changing environments. 
• Ensure all youth and adults in the county have an equal opportunity to participate in extension programs which offer a safe environment. 

UNIVERSITY INFORMATION 

The University of Missouri, also known as Mizzou and MU, is the Flagship University of the four-campus University of Missouri system.  It is the state’s land-grant university and one of the most comprehensive universities in the United States.  MU’s broad undergraduate programs and its’ graduate, professional and research programs attract annual enrollment of more than 30,000 students.  MU is centrally located in Columbia, MO, which is consistently ranked as one of America’s most livable cities.  MU Extension and Engagement programs are located on all four campuses and in 114 counties and St. Louis city.