Fix-it Clinic - Washington County

The Washington County Fix-it Clinic invites residents to a community-focused event on sustainability and hands-on learning. Scheduled for September 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Environmental Center in Woodbury, MN, the event encourages participants to bring their broken or malfunctioning items for repair. Embracing the motto, “Don’t trash it—fix it!” skilled volunteers will assist with minor repairs and teach valuable DIY skills to help extend the life of everyday belongings.

Each attendee may bring up to three items that they can carry without extra assistance. While volunteers will provide a range of tools, it is recommended that participants bring any specialized tools or supplies needed to test their items, such as CDs for CD players or batteries for electronic devices. Please note that only minor repairs, such as mending or hemming, will be offered for textiles—major sewing alterations are not covered.

The Fix-it Clinic operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with the last items accepted at 1:30 p.m. Items that cannot be repaired must be taken home, as the county does not provide disposal services for unfixable items. This event offers a valuable opportunity to learn new skills, reduce waste, and support a more sustainable community.

Future Fix-it Clinics 

Another Fix-it Clinic will be held on Saturday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hardwood Creek Library (19955 Forest Road North, Forest Lake).

Event Details 

The Fix-it Clinic is designed to promote reuse, reduce waste, and empower the community to keep items out of landfills. Residents are encouraged to bring in malfunctioning toasters, stubborn zippers, or other repairable items and learn how to fix them with help from experienced volunteers.

Accepted Items Include:

• Antique radios
• Blenders
• Camping lanterns
• Clothing and textiles (clean and dry)
• Dremel tools
• DVD players
• Fans
• Flashlights
• Hair dryers
• Lamps
• Paper shredders
• Remote controls
• Sewing machines
• Steam mops
• Stereos
• Telephones
• Toaster ovens
• Toasters
• Toys

Items Not Accepted:

• E-cigarettes or tobacco products
• Weapons (guns, knives, etc.)
• Oversized items (all items must be easy to carry in and out of the clinic)

Call for Volunteers 

The Fix-it Clinic is seeking volunteers with skills in soldering, electronic repair, sewing, woodworking, or anyone with a passion for tinkering. No expert skills are required—volunteers can learn new skills while assisting in other areas. Those interested in volunteering can email PHE@co.washington.mn.us or call 651-430-6655.

Washington County invites everyone to be part of this community effort to reduce waste, embrace sustainability, and give broken items a second chance. For more details, visit 

• https://www.washingtoncountymn.gov/3175/Reduce-and-Reuse
• https://www.washingtoncountymn.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3917