By Marsha Kearns, RSVP Project Manager

In 1992, Mesa County RSVP, which recruits seniors for volunteer positions, saw a need to help seniors on a limited-income and people with disabilities remain living safely and independently in their own homes. The solution was the Handyman Project.

Handyman Project volunteers are skilled at doing minor home improvements. They work for eligible people who just need a little help around the house. Handymen use their own tools, drive their own vehicles and give their time to enhance the quality of life for our clients.

Are you 55+ and handy?

Please consider joining our handy men and women who use their skill, time and compassion to help people who are physically and financially unable to help themselves. If you’re over age 55, all you have to do is join RSVP for free.

We’ll train you on our Handyman procedures and you get to choose the jobs. Volunteers receive mileage reimbursement, enjoy social events and volunteer insurance.

“I enjoy [volunteering] very much,” RSVP Handyman Kon Bender said. “I had the pleasure of meeting and working with some very talented craftsmen. You couldn’t ask for nicer, friendlier and in a lot of cases, helpful clients. It is a ball and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

Do you need a Handyman’s help?

To be eligible, you must be over age 55 or disabled. The household income must be below a certain limit, which is based on a sliding income scale according to the Federal Poverty Level.

As a qualified client, your Handyman’s services are free. However, you will need to be able to provide or pay for the materials used in your project. We also appreciate a donation, but it’s not required.

Things Handymen can and can’t do

Handymen install grab bars and safety railings, design and build wheelchair ramps, and help with furnace check-ups and window-unit coolers. They also help with minor plumbing and electrical, furniture repair and home adaptations.

Handymen can’t work on roofs or rooftop coolers. They can’t help with major plumbing or electrical, remodeling or home additions, moving, heavy lifting, or furniture assembly. They can’t do house cleaning or carpet, yard or garden work.

To become a Handyman Project volunteer or to find out if you qualify for Handyman services, call Mesa County RSVP at 243-9839 or RSVP Colorado West (Delta, Montrose, Ouray, San Miguel and North Fork areas) at 249-9639. In Glenwood Springs, the program is called “Helping Hands for Seniors.” For more information, call High Country RSVP at 384-8746.