For Seroj Terian, every day on the job is rewarding. Terian is the lead community handyman for the Help@Home program of Jewish Family Services. Terian helps adults age 65 and older or those who are younger but have a physical or mental disability, by doing minor home repairs that allow them to live independently in their own homes for as long as they choose.
“It’s been such a blessing for us,” said Louise Siegel, who’s been a Help@Home member since the program began almost four years ago.
Modeled after successful programs both in the United States and Israel, Help@Home was created to meet the needs of Kansas City’s growing older adult population. The service is provided for a monthly fee, which is based on a sliding scale.
Help@Home members have access to the services of Terian and his volunteer helpers.
“We do all kinds of minor home repairs including plumbing, electrical, paint and drywall, installing safety equipment like handrails and grab bars, etc. We also do many kinds of ‘around the house’ chores like assembling items, moving things, hanging pictures, flipping mattresses, cleaning gutters, etc.” he said.
Terian also provides some computer troubleshooting, as well as hooking up new electronics and components.
Dawn Herbet, who works directly with the program as JFS director of older adult initiatives, said Help@Home members are grateful for the services they receive through the program.
“Every time a member tells me how glad they are there’s a program like this in Kansas City, it just reinforces for me the need for older adults to have options to live their lives independently,” Herbet said. “That’s what Help@Home gives its members — options, support and a sense of security.”
Terian has been the lead community handyman for three-and-a-half years. While others might describe the chores he does as hard labor, Terian likes the tasks he performs.
“I enjoy working with my hands, fixing things, and solving challenges,” Terian said. “Each day is different. I also enjoy working with and getting to know our members and hearing about their life experiences.”
Terian said the services Help@Home provides its members gives them a real sense of security.
“Everyone who owns a home knows that there is -always something to repair and chores to be done. These tasks become difficult or impossible as people age,” Terian said. “It gives our members peace of mind to know that they can call us at any time when something comes up. They trust us.”
Siegel and her husband became Help@Home members to assist them with chores around their home.
“We were never very good at repairs, so when Help@Home became available we signed up right away,” she said.
Terian put in a microwave for the couple as well as stained a porch swing. When Siegel’s husband passed a little over a year ago, she came to rely on the program even more.
“Someone comes who is qualified to do the job, they come at the appointed time and they’re very friendly and capable,” she said. “I don’t know why anyone wouldn’t sign up.”
Help@Home is open to anyone 65 and older or those younger than 65 with a mental or physical disability, regardless of religion or ethnic background. New members are welcome. For more information or to join the program, contact Dawn Herbet at 913-327-8239 or .