Volunteers power organizations like ours. They’re how we create programs, spark fresh ideas, build connections and open doors to opportunities that benefit our members.

Approximately 63 million Americans volunteer annually. In fact, 60% of companies even offer paid volunteer time off—yet many hours that could be used for good go unused.

Especially now, when the world can feel overwhelming, volunteering offers a way to make a positive change. It allows you to engage with different areas of INCPAS, strengthen your skills and make a meaningful impact—not just within the organization, but in yourself and the lives of others.

Volunteers are the people behind the curtain who make nonprofits go ‘round. Without the unwavering support and generous donation of our members’ time and knowledge, INCPAS couldn’t provide the quality events, CPE, networking and more that our community relies on.

Why Volunteer?

Sharing your time and skill set is a win-win—for you, the community, INCPAS and your peers—because what’s second nature to you could be someone else’s breakthrough moment.

Volunteering gives you the opportunity to flex your strengths, contribute to meaningful projects, and grow personally and professionally.

Dorothy Hornbaker, CPA, assurance manager at Cherry Bekaert LLP, served on the INCPAS Not-for-Profit Conference Project Team for four years. When asked why she continues serving in this role each year, she shared “I enjoy collaborating with the other project team members and hearing their perspectives. I value the impact I get to make…and I’m thrilled to be able to contribute to the conference’s continued success.”

Whether you’re aiming to become a thought leader or are passionate about specific areas of INCPAS work, volunteering makes your membership even more meaningful. Just a few hours a month can make a tangible difference in the careers and lives of fellow CPAs and related professionals.

Volunteering benefits you through:

• Professional development: Build leadership skills, grow your network and make a real-world impact.
• Personal fulfillment: Mentor others, contribute to the profession and make a difference in someone’s life.
• Strengthening the pipeline: Inspire and guide the next generation of CPAs.
• Sharing your knowledge: Provide information and feedback to your peers.

Volunteering isn’t just about what you give—it’s also about what you get back from your peers and profession, which is often even more rewarding.

2024 INCPAS Volunteer of the Year Award winner Amanda Horvath, CPA, CGMA, is an audit director at Katz, Sapper & Miller LLP. Outside of work, she has served as an INCPAS CPA Advocate, Leadership Council member and Government Relations Advisory Council member. She has been instrumental in setting the Society’s legislative agenda and regulatory strategy, and has helped represent Indiana CPAs at AICPA’s Regional Council meetings in Washington D.C.

“The most rewarding part is the opportunity to stay connected with the incredible people who are dedicated to advancing the CPA profession,” Amanda said. “I enjoy interacting with the INCPAS staff, learning about developments impacting CPAs, and making an impact on Indiana CPAs. I also find it fulfilling to share this knowledge with my colleagues, especially CPA candidates at the start of their careers.”

How Much Time Does Volunteering Take?

We get it—your free time is precious. That’s why volunteering with INCPAS offers opportunities that match every schedule and interest. From micro-volunteering to committee work, you can choose your level of involvement.

“Volunteering for the Not-for-Profit Conference project team isn’t a large time commitment. We meet two to three times while planning the conference and communicate via email on any follow-up issues,” noted Dorothy.

Tom Bayer, CPA, CExP and principal at Sikich LLP, also makes a huge difference with a minimal amount of time. He currently serves as a CPA Advocate, member of the Government Relations Advisory Council, and as a blogger on federal and state tax update issues.

 “I have always believed that as a volunteer, I receive more than I give because of the personal and professional growth I achieve,” Tom said. “And my time commitment is probably only two to five hours per month.”

In other words, most INCPAS volunteer roles only require a few hours each month or

attending one meeting a year. If you do the math—and we know you can—even our more active committees (20+ hours annually) average out to just a few hours per month.

Find Your Fit

Whether you can give a little time or a lot, there’s a place for you at INCPAS. No matter your passion, level of experience or expertise, we have opportunities where you can make a difference, including:

• Shaping the CPE curriculum.
• Championing key profession issues at the Statehouse.
• Mentoring students and sharing the value of a career in accounting.
• Sharing your insights and wisdom to create quality events.

As Dorothy said, “Serving on the Not-for-Profit Conference project team is always enjoyable, collaborating with other professionals and working toward a common goal of presenting an exceptional conference. I would encourage any professional to volunteer for the Society. It is a great way to connect and make an impact.”

Get Involved with INCPAS

Explore the various opportunities we offer and choose where you’d like to make your mark. Here are some suggestions:

• Passionate about helping students discover the benefits of becoming a CPA? Get involved as a high school presenter during our Spring and Fall CPA Weeks.
• Ever thought you had a great session idea for a conference? Join a conference planning team and add your input on the agenda.
• Want to learn more about the INCPAS team’s advocacy work? Become a CPA Advocate to learn about the legislative process and stay up-to-date on key issues affecting the profession.

Once you’ve made your pick, log in to your INCPAS account, fill out your information, and voilà—you’re well on your way to being an essential part of a thriving community.

Get involved today—shape the future of our profession!