Repair Clark County program branching northward

Conservation through repair, that is the goal of Repair Clark County, a traveling program of Columbia Springs

VANCOUVER — The Repair Clark County program is holding its first ever event in Woodland.

Repair Clark County volunteers Fred Davis, Les McKown and Zach Thomas sharpen dull knives and tools at the January repair event. Photo courtesy of Columbia Springs
Repair Clark County volunteers Fred Davis, Les McKown and Zach Thomas sharpen dull knives and tools at the January repair event. Photo courtesy of Columbia Springs

Conservation through repair, that is the goal of Repair Clark County, a traveling program of Columbia Springs. This program moves around to various venues throughout Clark County and holds two-hour “repair fairs” where the public can bring in broken items and have them repaired for free, by skilled volunteer “fixers.” 

In March, the program is stretching farther north than ever before. “We wanted to make sure we were serving our north county residents.” said Terra Heilman, the program coordinator. “We’ve only ever been as far north as Battle Ground and I suspect we’re missing a lot of people who could use our services.” 

Repair Clark County volunteer, Celia Cruz, working on a sewing project at the January event. Photo courtesy of Columbia Springs
Repair Clark County volunteer, Celia Cruz, working on a sewing project at the January event. Photo courtesy of Columbia Springs

Pretty much anything that is broken can be repaired at the events. 

“We’ll take a look at just about anything.” says Heilman. “Our only restrictions are gas engines and microwaves. Otherwise, it’s fair game and we’ll at least take a look and give it our best shot.” Another rule of thumb is to bring items that can easily be carried by one person. Multiple items are welcome, but clients must wait while each item is being looked at and then fill out a new repair ticket for additional items.

A happy client rings the bell for a successful repair at the January Repair Clark County event. Photo courtesy of Columbia Springs

The Repair Clark County program regularly fixes hundreds of items in the categories of; sewing projects, sharpening dull knives, blades and tools, electronics, small appliances, bicycles, jewelry and household decor. 

The March repair event takes place at the Woodland Community Center on Thu., March 12, from 5-7 p.m.. Co-hosted by the Woodland Community Library, this event is an example of collaboration by local organizations. It provides an opportunity to connect with neighbors as well as giving some personal items an extended life.

What: Repair Clark County event, where you can bring your broken household items to be fixed, for free

When: Thu., March 12, 5-7 p.m.

Where: Woodland Community Center, 782 Park Street, Woodland, WA 98674

Information provided by Columbia Springs.