One of the toughest challenges facing older adults and people with disabilities is keeping up with home repairs. Whether it’s changing a smoke detector battery or installing grab bars in the bathroom, we often need a helping hand to get the job done.
RSVP of Boulder County would like to honor Drew Kramer, an RSVP Fix It program Handyman as the Volunteer of the Month. Drew brings knowledge, skill and experience to home repair projects and volunteers his time and expertise throughout the county. As an RSVP volunteer, Drew responds to a wide variety of home repair needs. Installing smoke detectors, fixing electrical and plumbing problems, replacing burned out lights with energy efficient bulbs, and doing a variety of other home repair projects helps people live safely and independently.
Originally from Kansas, Drew moved to Longmont to be closer to family. He likes living in Longmont because “it has that home town feel, while still being close to major cities and the mountains.” Drew retired from the Manufacturing and Steel Industry, but has always enjoyed home improvement projects. Now that he has settled in Longmont, he has launched a new career as an active volunteer. Drew volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for low income families, and with the RSVP Fix It program.
According to Drew, “The best thing about RSVP is that when somebody calls they know they can get somebody they trust.” Volunteering is also a constant learning experience. “I’m always learning something new, or running into a Fix It job I haven’t seen before.”
Drew recounts an experience working with one senior who lives in a house that is over one hundred years old. He really enjoyed the challenge of repairing old wiring and seeing the vintage light fixtures and switches. Drew says that Fix It volunteers need some experience with home repair, and then have to analyze the problem and figure out the best solution for the task.
“I like to go the extra mile and make sure that I get the job done right. Sometimes I have to find parts for 30 year old bathroom fans, do research on the internet, and really figure out how to solve the problem. I run into pretty unique situations, “ he states. The best part of being a Fix It volunteer is seeing the relief and appreciation from Fix It program clients. “It’s satisfying to know I’ve really made a difference,” Drew points out.
RSVP of Boulder County appreciates all of Drew Kramer’s hard work and volunteerism. Thanks to Drew and all of our volunteers, hundreds of older adults and people with disabilities get help through the Fix It program each year. If you would like more information about our program, or are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact us at 303-772-2262. RSVP offers a wide variety of volunteer programs and there are plenty of ways to get involved. Please give us a call.
Do your have an RSVP volunteer you would like to honor? Please email your nominations to Maggie Shearon, Volunteer Coordinator at maggieshearon@rsvpboulder.org
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