In My Own Words
By Stan Mayer, JFS Fix-It Service

Stanley (Stan) Mayer has been volunteering for the JFS Fix-It Service for three years. Originally from Chicago, and having lived in Philadelphia for 32 years, he retired eight and a half years ago in San Diego. Stan was an engineer with his own business, designing and building custom industrial robots. In his free time (when he isn’t volunteering for Fix-It or for Temple Emanu-El’s senior group), he enjoys reading, theatre (especially musicals), and spending time with his wife of 48 years, along with his two children and six grandchildren.

Three years ago, as part of my volunteer activity with the Forseers at Temple Emanu-El, I acquired a copy of “The Senior Voice." I noticed an ad for the Fix-It Service at Jewish Family Service. I called the number and a lovely voice greeted me and asked what Fix-It service I needed. I said I did not need any service. She said, “Why did you call?” I replied that after seeing the ad I thought my skill set might be useful to the organization. She transferred me to the Coordinator of Volunteer Services, and thus started what is, in my view, a wonderful relationship.  

There are many rewarding aspects of this activity. First, there are the people we help. Second, there is the challenge of the actual work we do. Third, there is the instant gratification of completing the job and working with the wonderful folks at JFS.  

The people we help come from a wide range of backgrounds. I never know who I might meet when going out on a job. I have met many very interesting people. One of the clients was a member of the Women’s Air Corps, a division of the Army and a precursor to the Air Force during WWII. She was there, on the front lines, contributing at the beginnings of serious air warfare. She is still a vibrant lady who regularly volunteers in her community. The people we serve have led full and productive lives and are interesting to talk to. I sometimes think that just our talking and listening during our visit helps them.

Every job is a challenge. The jobs can be as simple as changing a light bulb in an overhead kitchen light or as complex as repairing an overhead garage door. Troubleshooting a problem to determine the cause can sometimes be as difficult as fixing it. This is particularly true with plumbing or electrical problems, but it can also be true for seemingly simple things like a door that will not close and lock properly. I sometimes put a low peep hole in a door for shorter or disabled people and install grab bars in many locations where needed. Determining the correct location for each repair or installation is part of doing the job of helping them stay safely in their homes.  

There is great personal gratification in completing the job and having a satisfied client sign off on the work. You leave their home knowing they will be safer and more comfortable because of the work you did. It is very rewarding when folks call in and ask for you by name. I also feel this is a way I can give back to a community that has been good to me. I appreciate the opportunity Fix-It provides.

The wonderful people I work with at JFS make this service both fun and rewarding. “Ms. Fix-It”, Melissa Dennison, does a great job of keeping us motivated, supplied with work, tools, and materials. She and the other volunteers are always ready to help if you have a situation that needs a special skill or another set of hands.  Everyone at JFS, including the receptionist, is always friendly, courteous, and helpful. This helps me stay friendly, courteous, and helpful too.

If you are interested in volunteering with the JFS Fix-It Service like Stan, contact Volunteer Engagement at (858) 637-3050 or volunteer@jfssd.org.