Committee, task force, expert panel volunteer application process begins. (member news).

A new simplified and informative Web site (http://volunteers.aicpa.org/apply) has been created and is now available for the 2002-2003 application process for committee, task force and expert panel service. The new site replaces the previous site created following the committee restructuring effort of 1999.

This new Web site has been developed with two primary goals in mind: to dramatically simplify and speed up the application process through fewer and better designed Web pages, and to provide more information to assist applicants in determining the volunteer groups to which they would like to apply.

In a major change to simplify the site, the selection of "skills" is no longer a mandatory aspect of the application process. However, the entry of skills and the inclusion of a resume, if available, can be particularly helpful during the appointments selection process and will enable the AICPA to proactively contact a member when a new volunteer group is formed that complements that member's particular experience. Members are reminded that volunteer members must have access to the Internet and an e-mail account to help facilitate communication.

The new application Web site also can be reached from the home page of the newly revised Committee Handbook located at http://volunteers. aicpa.org/handbook. The Committee Handbook provides the ability to review each volunteer group roster and optionally print out all rosters or any particular combination of rosters (e.g., printing only tax-related groups).

Again this year, to help avoid any conflict with tax season, the final date to apply to volunteer groups has been extended to May 1. Address any inquiries concerning AICPA volunteer groups to [e-mail] or contact David Ray at 212/596-6030.