The Talladega County Volunteer Program (TCVP) was officially founded in 2012, but the story begins a few years earlier.

For many years, a portion of the state’s tobacco tax—about $15,000—was designated for a senior volunteer program known as RSVP, which was managed by the East Alabama Regional Planning Commission. When RSVP ended in 2011, Talladega County was still receiving those funds, but no longer had a program to support.

Seeing the opportunity to continue making a difference, County Administrator Wayne Hall worked with Mack Ferguson of the Chamber of Commerce and several local leaders to form a new organization. After many meetings, lots of paperwork, and strong support from community partners and elected officials, TCVP was incorporated on February 28, 2012. By May of that year, Act 2012-457 was signed into law, officially allowing TCVP to receive and use those funds.

TCVP originally hoped to continue RSVP’s two main services: matching senior volunteers with local needs, and providing free tax help to seniors and low-income residents. While the volunteer placement program didn’t continue, TCVP found new ways to serve the community.

Today, we focus on two key areas:

1. Small Grants Program
TCVP awards grants of up to $1,000 to local nonprofits and community groups working to improve life in Talladega County. Since 2012, we’ve awarded over $65,000 to support a variety of meaningful projects.

2. Free Tax Assistance
In partnership with Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama (VCCA), we help provide free tax preparation to qualifying seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. TCVP has contributed over $50,000 to this vital service, helping residents avoid costly tax prep fees and receive important refunds.

Each year, we budget around $4,000 for tax services and $7,000–$8,000 for community grants. We are a fully volunteer-run organization, and we’re grateful to the County for providing office space and to our dedicated volunteers who keep operations running smoothly.

What began as a 4-person board has grown to 11 members representing communities across the county—from Lincoln and Sylacauga to Talladega, Childersburg, and beyond.

Like any growing organization, we’ve learned and adapted over the years. But our mission remains the same: to support local efforts that make life better for the people of Talladega County.

TEAM: Together Everyone Accomplishes More
Whether you're a board member, grant recipient, community leader, or volunteer, you are part of our team. Thank you for helping us continue this work.