As we learn more about Madison County, today we are excited to feature Laura Barthel!
Laura is the Central Kentucky Economic Empowerment Project (CKEEP) site coordinator for our Eastern Kentucky University location. She teaches a class for EKU students about tax preparation, and then manages the site as the students work in teams to complete the tax returns.
Let’s learn more about Laura in our question and answer session below!
What made you realize you had a passion for this type of volunteer work?
It’s really inspiring to see clients who really need help and know that we are able to help them. When they come in, they’re so appreciative of the work. Sometimes their tax preparation options are limited, and it really helps the students to see how their skillset can help other people.
What is your favorite part of being a CKEEP site coordinator?
My favorite part is just being able to provide a service and teach the students to serve with their specialized skills.
What about working in this position inspires you?
I’m inspired by seeing the relief on our clients’ faces when they see their tax return is complete and seeing the students’ joy at being able to provide that service.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to spend time with my family on our farm and go camping with my daughters.
Fast questions:
How would you describe yourself?
Christian, energetic, positive and determined.
Are you an early bird or night owl?
It depends on the week - whichever one I need to be.
If you could time travel, would you go back in time or to the future?
I would go back in time.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
If not Richmond, then Colorado. But I really like living in Richmond.
Unfortunately, the EKU CKEEP site is not going to be open this semester due to COVID-19 complications. However, there are still opportunities to make a difference through volunteering with CKEEP. For more information, click here.
Thank you for your amazing work as a CKEEP site coordinator, Laura! We appreciate everything you’re doing to improve our community!