By Rich Larson
Rice County residents can get help repairing broken household items at a free Fix-it Clinic Saturday, Oct. 17, in the Great Hall at Buckham Memorial Library in Faribault.
The clinic runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is hosted by Rice County Environmental Services, Minnesota GreenCorps and the library.
Volunteers will offer guided assistance with small household appliances, clothing, toys, electronics, mobile devices and other items that need repair. Participants will work alongside volunteers to take items apart, identify problems and attempt repairs.
The clinics are intended to keep repairable items out of landfills, help residents avoid unnecessary purchases and teach practical skills. Organizers also hope the events build community connections by bringing people together to share their knowledge.
Each participant may bring up to two items. All items must be clean, and assistance is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Volunteers will have basic tools available, but attendees should bring any replacement parts or tools they think could help with their repairs.
Upon arrival, participants will check in, sign a liability waiver and have their items weighed. When a volunteer becomes available, they will move to that volunteer’s table and take an active role in troubleshooting and repair.
Organizers encourage attendees to ask questions and learn from their volunteer fixer. They also ask for patience, as clinics can become busy.
Before leaving, participants should return to the welcome table to report whether their items were repaired and complete a survey about their experience.
Repairs are not guaranteed. Participants remain responsible for properly disposing of anything volunteers cannot fix.
For information about disposal options, visit ricecountymn.gov/662/Where-do-I-dispose-of or call Rice County Environmental Services at 507-332-6833.
The clinic offers residents an opportunity to give familiar belongings another chance while gaining skills they can use when something else breaks down at home.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
