Toss it? No Way! Fix-It Clinic reduces trash & teaches skills
Gallatin Solid Waste Management District (GSWMD) and Bozeman City Sustainability are teaming up to organize the first ever free Fix-It Clinic for Gallatin County. From 10am–2pm on Saturday, May 6th, residents may bring household items and clothing in need of minor repairs to Building 4 at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds where volunteers will offer guided assistance in bringing them back to life.
Everyone is welcome to get involved in this pop-up activity, especially people who have never before attempted to disassemble (and then reassemble) their household items. Local businesses, nonprofits, and individuals will be among the volunteer coaches to help patch clothes, fix zippers, stabilize chairs, or get that old food processor spinning again. The Green Darner, The Bozeman Makerspace, The Bozeman Bike Kitchen, and Owenhouse ACE Hardware will be on hand to share their knowledge and represent a small fraction of the repair resources in the area.
It is often easier to fix a broken item than expected, but even failed repairs have educational value for the owner.
“The average American sends 4.5 pounds of trash to the landfill every single day,” according to Rob Pudner, Recycling Outreach Educator with GSWMD. “We want to bring that average down while helping residents learn new skills.”
Be sure to bring any parts, accessories, or special tools that may be helpful and keep everything organized in a box or bag. Some tools will be provided. Repairs are limited to items that can be carried by one person and do not have an engine.
If you are handy and would like to help others, email Rob.Pudner@gallatin.mt.gov or call (406) 582-2493 to sign up as a volunteer. For complete information, visit www.GallatinSolidWaste.org/fixit. •