United Way Staff Spotlight – Brad Martin
Meet Brad Martin, the Program Coordinator for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program at United Way of Southwest Alabama. Brad joined the organization in September 2011 when he started with HandsOn South Alabama, later merging with UWSWA in April 2013. His initial attraction to the role stemmed from his extensive background in volunteer work, aligning perfectly with the organization’s focus on community service.
Before joining United Way, Brad spent over a decade at 91.3 WHIL-FM at Spring Hill College, overseeing WHIL’s Radio Reading Service. This program relied on volunteers to read printed materials to individuals who are blind or have low vision. After the radio station’s sale, Brad transitioned to HOSA, overseeing the Volunteer Guardian program, where he matched volunteers with adults in need of a legal guardian. It was during this time that he unexpectedly discovered his passion for tax preparation.
As the Program Coordinator for VITA, Brad’s responsibilities are comprehensive. He manages all aspects of the tax program, from recruiting and training volunteers to overseeing tax preparation sites and ensuring compliance with IRS requirements. Beyond taxes, Brad represents UWSWA in the Bank On coalition and assists with Volunteer Connect, the organization’s volunteer management system.
Currently involved in testing the IRS Direct File pilot program, Brad aims to make tax preparation accessible for persons who are blind and use screen reading software. His work positively impacts the community by helping individuals improve their financial situations, aligning with UWSWA’s mission to make life better for people in the community.
Inspired by the joy of helping others, Brad values using his talents, knowledge, and privilege to understand people and make a positive impact. While admitting that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is challenging, he remains dedicated to his role.
Outside of work, Brad enjoys travel, exploring new restaurants, and indulging in his hobby as a points and miles enthusiast. An interesting fact about him is that he is blind and has been blind all his life, challenging preconceived notions about the capabilities of blind individuals.
Known for his contagious laughter that carries across the office, Brad offers practical advice to those starting their careers in a similar field—be realistic, learn all you can, do your best, and be willing to work around limitations. He doesn’t subscribe to cliches but believes in the power of understanding and making life better for others, contributing to the well-being of the community as a whole.
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