Turning the Pro Bono Corner--provide services to those in need.

• Position: Includes list of income tax training programs

Public service is an important responsibility of any profession. A small but growing number of CPAs contribute their professional services in many ways. One example is preparing taxes for people with low incomes--even during tax season. More than 135 Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics partially funded by Congress under the Internal Revenue Code are looking for CPA volunteers to help low-income taxpayers.

Many of their tax returns are complex, and the refunds are increasingly large because of the refundable earned income credit and child tax credit. You also can offer advice on how best to maximize the value of those refunds. Little is routine; much is challenging. You can make a difference.

Accountants and auditors who do not regularly work with taxes are welcome. Training programs and on-site support will help with any transition. Fluency in one or more foreign languages can be very helpful. If you do not live or work in one of the areas covered by any of these groups--listed East to West--send an e-mail to ebbetsl6@yahoo.com saying where you would like to volunteer. If an LITC exists in your area, you will be given contact information. Also, the VITA program run by the IRS always can use experienced CPAs; contact the local coordinator.

Boston...