Goodwill Handy Helpers Introduced

Handy Helpers, Wade Warner, left, and David Horsley spread mulch after pulling weeds during the inaugural Handy Helpers appointment on Friday, June 26, 2020. (Photo submitted by Goodwill of South Central Ohio)

Goodwill of South Central Ohio is piloting Goodwill Handy Helpers, a new program the employs those with disabilities and provide handyman like services for Ross County communities.

In a news release Friday, Goodwill Handy Helpers can be called on by any Chillicothe and Ross County resident to complete small-to-medium sized home projects such as planting flowers, mulching, raking leaves and even holiday decorating.

Donations will be accepted by recipients of services to fo toward the program.

“On the surface, Goodwill Handy Helpers is a limited handyman service for those in need, but it’s aim is to foster feelings of independence and self-worth” said Goodwill of South Central Ohio CEO Marvin Jones. “The program provides those with disabilities employment in the community where they can make connections with others, learn skills and showcase their abilities through personal interactions.”

The Goodwill Handy Helpers program is being piloted with a $25,000 grant from the Landrum Endowment Fund through the Pioneer Center/Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the Foundation of Appalachia Ohio. If successful, GWSCO will look to expand the program into other parts of its eight county service area.

Appointments with Handy Helpers can be made by calling the Chillicothe Goodwill Activities and Training Center at 740-702-4009.