Homeowner Johanna Crosby (middle) poses with Big Fix-A-Thon volunteers Cheryl Codair and Heather Ferris.
At the beginning of October, 340 volunteers came out on a sunny, seasonable day to make a big difference in the lives of 16 homeowners in Hyannis and Centerville as part of our 10th Annual Big Fix-A-Thon.
One of the recipients included Johanna Crosby who watched in awe as a swarm of volunteers tackled a range of projects at her Hyannis home that included yard work, interior painting, fixing a slider door, installing grab bars in an upstairs bathroom, and hauling trash.
“It restores your faith in humanity,” she said.
At one time, her husband of 44 years, John, could have done this work himself. Today, the former Army medic who was awarded the Purple Heart for his service in Vietnam is fighting ALS, making it impossible for him to do so.
Instead, 17 volunteers did that work for the couple, just one example of how the Big Fix-A-Thon exemplifies the best in our community.
Barnstable Town Manager Mark Ells (right) passes the hammer to Orleans Town Administrator John Kelly. Next year’s Big Fix-A-Thon will be headed to Orleans.
The day of service also raised more than $75,000 to support Housing Assistance’s year-round work. Next year, preparations are already underway to continue the momentum when the Big Fix-A-Thon makes its way to Orleans.
