Umbrella of the Capital District, Inc.

I have taken care of my Aunt and Uncle and special-needs cousin since 2018. At that time my Uncle, 99, fell to the floor with pneumonia and my Aunt, 92, trying to lift him, cracked her pelvis. Both ended up incapacitated; Uncle Warren went to the hospital; he went from being able to walk and drive a car to confined to a wheel chair; Aunt Austra could no longer go grocery shopping or even get out of bed to go to the bathroom without severe pain. Their son, Cousin Kevin, 54, schizophrenic since age 18, was used to them driving him to doctor's appointments and grocery stores. Suddenly, the household came to an abrupt stop. No food in the kitchen. No bills being paid. No relatives or friends nearby. As one of their only retired relatives, I stepped in to help. I live in Oklahoma and they live in Schenectady, NY. You can imagine there were some challenges. One of the amazing things Austra said to me when I flew in to get things organized was "One thing you need to do is get a trash pick up service." - Uncle Warren had been driving all trash and recyclables to a pickup station every week - at age 99!

Umbrella has been instrumental in meeting one significant challenge: allowing all three of them to stay in their home. Umbrella assessed the home situation and recommended safety upgrades and maintenance at a very reasonable price. One of their employees has been able to take Kevin to get food and pick up medications whenever he needs. The head of Umbrella even came to the house to coach Austra, who was very hard of hearing, on how to use a tablet to communicate.

Certainly there were other challenges such as getting an in-home doctor and care givers to look after Warren and Austra. Warren made it to 102, passing in 2020. And Austra died at 97 last year, 2023. Kevin is still living in the family house, learning a few new skills (still doesn't drive, use a cell phone, or internet), and relying on Umbrella recently to fix a broken sliverware drawer and kitchen faucet.

I think Umbrella of the Capital District provides an outstanding service. The NY Capital District is lucky to have this organization. I don't know of any other area that has anything like this personal service.

Beth Rooney, Tulsa, Oklahoma

What Umbrella offers is priceless and twofold.
On one level it offers concrete advice and help on a practical level.
On another it offers peace of mind that cannot be found elsewhere.
Who or what other organization can be called 24 hours a day ?
Such a sense of security !

Ron was great in helping my elderly parents get help, while their daughters are far away. He introduced us to Diana who has been wonderful to my parents and us, thank you.- Stevens Family

It is so hard to get someone to do a small Job for you. Calling umbrella has changed that. An example for me is taking my window air conditioners out this season. One of the many things they’ve done for me! Also, last year, at the end of the summer season, there was a dead raccoon in the back of my yard. I have a cat that is outdoor kitty and I was afraid he might get into it. After calling many agencies which I thought might be of help they could not and they could not guide me. One place was willing to come out for over $200. I called Umbrella and they were able to send someone who knew how to deal with the situation. If the raccoon had been on the road the town would have come, but, because of where it was they would not. I am just really happy that we signed up with Umbrella years ago and after my husband died it has really come in handy!

I had a handyman paint two small rooms....it took him 2 full days and in one room with a hardwood floor, he dripped paint on the floor. He did not stir the paint, instead he dumped it into a black plastic lined bucket. He washed the walls (which did noy need washing) with a wet swiffer. Then, using an old frayed brush, proceeded to get pink paint here and there on my newly paintedwhite ceilings, tried to erase his mistakes by using a shop vac with a sand paper screen attachment. He never used a dropcloth, which i provided and got paint drips and streaks on my hardwood floor. The client specialist was made aware of the mess and he said he would send a professional painter to fix it at their expense. He sent me a better painter, but not a professional. This "professional " fixed my hardwood floor by scraping the paint off using a putty knife and removing the finish on the floor in spots as well. So, rather than fixing that issue, the client specialist kicked me out of their organization. It is not worth the yearly fee, what you have to pay the slow workers or the aggravation. They do not stand by their workers if it becomes too costly for them. The client specialist said "you have to realize these workers are not professionals"....well, I am not a professional but i can mow a lawn, paint and do most things like a professional. They do not vet or rate their workers abilities, the workers do that themselves. A bad business.

They sent me the nicest lady to clean my house. She knows how to clean a house. She comes every two weeks.
The gentleman that takes care of my yard is
Great. Our electric lawnmower was given him trouble a couple of weeks in. He took it apart and got it to work throughout the summer.

This is my 4th review for Umbrella over the last 12 + years. I am only too pleased to share our story.

My husband retired from his second "job" in 20o5. He needed something to keep him active and earn him some pin money . He joined Umbrella after hearing Ron Byrne speak at our local Neighborhood Association meeting.
Over the years, he worked as a handyman and has made made many seniors more comfortable in their homes. He assisted them with tasks they could no longer do. He loved every minute of it.
I , too, volunteered in the office for a while and did phone work from home for Umbrella until I had health issues.
At the present time, my husband's health is keeping him from participating doing the tasks that he could once do with ease.
We find we now need assistance from Umbrella workers. I have a cleaning lady and she takes a big load off my shoulders. We will need someone to help with snow blowing the driveway this winter. Maybe other tasks.
Our son who is retired joined Umbrella as a handyman last year. He enjoys helping the seniors and earning some money at the same time. He goes skiing out West for 3 months in the Winter so he enjoys the Spring, Summer & Fall working for Umbrella. Working with Umbrella gives him the outlet for "can't sit still" nature.
Now if the "second generation" thinks Umbrella is a good idea, you know it must be.
Umbrella personnel can be trusted to find solutions for you. They have emergency plans in place when something out of the ordinary comes up for the senior.
So whether you are a senior needing help or person looking for a job that is rewarding and part time, Umbrella fits the bill.
The Greatest Generation is being served well by Umbrella of the Capital District, Inc.

Mrs. G. October 14,2021

I joined Umbrella as a handyperson in 2020, and have been helping people handle problems with their houses for almost a year. The team does a great job ensuring that the handypersons' skills match the jobs, and checking in and maintaining the records about how all the jobs are progressing and closing them out when complete. The jobs run from half-hour GFCI installs to multi-week rebuilds of wooden structures - I had one screen porch rescue that ran over two months! It's a wonderful organization fulfilling an important role in the community by bringing people together and making things better.

umbrella has been a life-saver on numerous occasions for my husband and me! i cannot rate this organization highly enough! they always answer their phone, are courteous, friendly, ask all the right questions, and are prompt in getting the appropriate service provider. i recommend Umbrella of the Capital District to everyone i know!

I have been a member of Umbrella since 2004. During those years they have fixed the gates on my fence, moved beds, installed a window air conditioner, removed a broken play house , made safe electrical outlets and cleaned my yard of leaves and broken limbs. Their volunteers are efficient, pleasant and willing whether it is repairing, painting buildings or raking leaves. They try to satisfy their customer leaving behind a more relaxed person.

I have been a client of UMBRELLA of the Capital Distract for at least 20 years, and I think they are marvelous . Over the years they have helped me with housecleaning, gardening, diagnosing a computer problem, fixing a dining room table, and hanging up a canoe and a bike in my garage.
I recommend them highly, they provide a much needed service and their fees are quite reasonable.
Jenny O

I have enjoyed the services and skills of Umbrella of the Capital District for several years now. From the folks who answer the phones and help direct me to the volunteers who actually come to help me, it has been a lovely arrangement. They have been quite thorough in following up to see that work was done and that I was pleased.
I highly recommend Umbrella to all my friends...

Umbrella provides a very unique and valuable service. We have been members of Umbrella for over a decade. First, for our live in father and now for both of us. While we have not needed them many times, each time we did they were very helpful in linking us with needed services, whether Electrical, furnace, household or outside work, we received excellent service at a very reasonable cost. They are certainly helping people stay in their homes and aging in place, where that is the need of the member. Thanks Ron, your staff and your volunteers that have served us so well!! chris, colonie

As a retired woman living alone, Umbrella is a great fit for me. I live in an old house that always needs some kind of attention, which on my fixed income and current physical condition, can be beyond my means. I very much appreciate that when I call Umbrella, they are immediately responsive to whatever my need is, i.e. work on my house, like glazing all my windows, someone to mow or snowblow, or finding me professionals to deal with plumbing, roofing, etc. I have been happy to recommended Umbrella to many of my friends.

It was evening and all of a sudden water started flowing out of my downstairs toilet and onto
my good living room and dining room floors. The cellar was getting flooded also and I didn't know who to call so I called Umbrella. They immediately sent a person over to help mop
up the flood and shortly dispatched a plumber who fixed the problem for a reasonable fee.
I've called Umbrella for other urgent situations and they were always there for me. If they
couldn't fix a problem, they found someone who could. You get more than your money's worth if you join Umbrella. They are always there for you.

I did plumbing for Umbrella for about 20 years. It was a a godsend for me as it allowed me to work for myself while charging low rates to members. The staff was extremely patient and helpful and most customers were a pleasure to work for. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to work for them and help people that truly needed a break.

Every time I call Umbrella they are courteous and professional. The people who work for them are wonderful, honest and talented.

Umbrella's goal of helping seniors live independently in their homes is wonderful. And the very affordable handyperson services have been tremendously valuable to me. Unfortunately, Umbrella does not have handypersons who can perform electrical, plumbing or flooring services. For those services, Umbrella only provides referrals to professional service peopke/businesses. I have contacted or used these referred entities a few times and overall have been disappointed . . . My experience with the referral process has ranged from acceptable/ok to poor, which is why this rating is 3 rather than 5 stars. Personally, I believe Umbrella may wish to seriously consider terminating the referral process altogether and just focusing on the already excellent handyperson services, which I sincerely appreciate and unequivocally recommend.

I work for Umbrella driving clients where they want to go. Travel is much more accurate than a cab and much less expensive. I like providing a service to people, and people enjoy having that service. It leaves me with a good feeling.

I have 2 helpers in my area that help me with my outside maintenance and indoor repairs and home chores that need 2 people {like windows}....I am 74, a widow and have had multiple joints replaced due to arthritis and would not be able to maintain my home and flowers without umbrella services....My assigned helpers are responsible,on time,pick up all tools and debris when they are done....They are knowledgeable and have a good working knowledge of their chosen chores....I have never called umbrella for a new service like plumbing,electrical,or appliance service that a suggestion was unavailable.....I have used their service for over 13 years including rides to appointments that require another person to get you home and most grateful that I have the peace of mind that I can stay in my own home until I decide it's time to downsize.....communication with the organization and it's helpers is smooth,direct and honest... I would highly recommend Umbrella to seniors in the area ...AAA+ thanks for providing this wonderful service to us independent home owners.....

I have been a customer of Umbrella of the Capital District for many, many years, am very satisfied with their services and think they are a fantastic resource for older people.
In addition to regular help with house cleaning and garden maintenance, they also have helped me with the following chores:
Remove window airconditioners in the fall and reinstall them in the spring; fix my dining room table, rewire a table lamp, hang up canoes and bicycles in my garage and take my patio furniture to the basement in the fall and bring them up again in the spring.
I am ever so grateful for the fact that Umbrella exists in y town, and hope they continue to be here forever.
Jenny Overeynder

I signed up for Umbrella's service about five years ago. My husband had passed away and I was facing the demands of maintaining my house and property without assistance. Not anymore. Umbrella was founded on the simple but creative idea of matching seniors who need help maintaining their property with retired people looking for part-time work helping others. From that time to the present, Umbrella has assigned workers for a variety of projects, from yard work and gutter clearing, to cleaning and staining my deck. The workers have been conscientious and courteous, and they continue to be a big help in making home maintenance more affordable.

Umbrella of the Capital District is a great organization that provides an important service to our seniors and the community as a whole. The program allows senior citizens to stay in their homes by providing valuable services such as home repairs and home maintenance that has become a burden both financially and physically to these homeowners. Keep up the good work!

Umbrella of the Capital District, Inc. has really helped me out countless times. It is like having a friend talk through the best way to get the project done and connecting you with someone to help get the work completed. They help with all aspects of getting many varied projects done that you need. I have had so many items that needed doing, especially this year. I have been utilizing their help for a number of years now. When you don't know where to start, this kind of help is invaluable. They stand by their recommendations as well. I appreciate Umbrella and what they do,

Wind catches the old door Sunday morning, glass all over the place,...call Umbrella.

Thermostat dies Saturday of holiday weekend heat wave...call Umbrella, troubleshoot by phone, then call suggested repair service. (Weekend rate, but worth it for three days of comfort.)

I try not to call on weekends when the office is closed, but it's comforting to know they will try to help if we're stuck.

As we moved on in years Umbrella has been there with handypersons and professionals to help with chores we used to do ourselves: build hand rails to basement and garage steps, install cat door, service and use lawn mower and snowblower, replace crumbling drain pipe and 50-year-old shut-offs, update electric outlets, rebuild inside of toilet tank, change ceiling light bulbs, troubleshoot roof exhaust fan, help with major yard cleanup spring and fall, for the mental health of this 24/7 caregiver fence in the vegetable garden, and much more. All this with simple phone calls and email to Umbrella.

Umbrella makes us comfortable in this house we like, that the "man of the house" adapted to our unique needs and interests throughout his younger years. Now he contentedly snuggles with a cat. Please support Great Nonprofit Umbrella of the Capital District, and volunteer if you can. We need you.

I have requested help from Umbrella for a wide variety of services including; plumbing services, house painting, yard work, boat and house cleaning, and sorting clothing to donate to various charities and consignment organizations. They are extremely helpful and provide very knowledgeable and talented men and women of excellent work ethics. Just an outstanding agency to do business with.

I depend on Umbrella for different jobs around my home . I have several high light fixtures . It may take them less than a half an hour to complete . They say” I still have to charge for the hour.”
And I say” $15 or $15,000 for the nursing home If I fall trying to change the light fixtures! Love Umbrella

I started my work as a “handyman” for Umbrella nearly one year ago because I was drawn to its mission of serving seniors and persons with disabilities in my community. I also hoped that it would offer me the opportunity to share some meaningful time with a clientele that often faces diminishing social contact and increasing isolation. I can say, without a doubt, that Umbrella has more than met my expectations. I enjoy the variety of jobs that I am asked to take on, as well as the satisfaction of knowing that my “customers” are typically very appreciative of my efforts. Most importantly, I have met many wonderful people, shared many rich conversations and established ongoing relationships with a few repeat customers. Based on my experience, I would argue that Umbrella is an exceptional nonprofit because the benefits and value it offers to the community go far beyond the obvious and usually exceed expectations.

After my husband died several years ago, the house fell into a state of disrepair. The list of things that needed attention grew longer, and I never knew who to call for which job. And often, they didn’t show up or complete the job, or I felt like I needed multiple estimates. My friend’s husband started working for Umbrella when he retired and suggested I check it out. I’m so glad I did! They have an army of people who seem to be able to do almost anything at an affordable rate. For more complex jobs, they have community connections for high quality specialists and they offer a discount for Umbrella customers. The office staff is responsive and helpful, and I’m so glad I found them!

I have been a member of Umbrella of the Capital District since 2015. Umbrella provides a great service to seniors in the Capital District and a strong security net. They are available nights and weekends for emergency home repair situations. I have used their handymen for lawn services, gutter cleaning, spring and fall cleanup. They have someone who repaired my lawnmower and a plumber who came several times. Umbrella has vendors they recommend for jobs their handymen cannot perform. And I’ve used those companies several times also.
I would not be able to stay in my home without the people Umbrella has sent to help me.
I highly recommend this organization!

I am a single woman who lives alone in a good sized house. Having an organization like Umbrella literally at my beck and call gives me a great sense of security and peace of mind. My kitchen sink drain stopped up on a Saturday evening. Absolutely nothing would go down. A call on the emergency number connected me with someone who gave me explicit instructions on how to deal with it as well as a back-up number to call for assistance if the "DIY" did not work. I have called them when I needed to replace torn window screens and had the job taken care of without my having to do anything. Most recently I asked for received a safety check of my home and had two new smoke detectors installed where I had not realized I should have had them. Over the years I have had many small tasks performed, things I could not do myself or did not have the tools to do. Installing a cat door into my cellar was one such task, weather proofing my deck was another. The list is literally endless. It is a great organization that provides both service and peace of mind.

Always my go-to place when I need to get anything done around my home. I don't do ladders any more, the workers are already checked out and always there for a better-than-reasonable price when I have to have work done. Don't know what I'd do without them!

The goal is only to accommodate the needs of senior citizens in the community.

Over a period of many years, Umbrella has allowed me to stay in my home. Ron Byrne and his people in the office are always there to take my call and discuss my issues. They then send outstanding handymen or plumbers or whomever is needed for the task, from big to small. My favorite story shows why I feel so secure with Umbrella taking care of me. It was a frigid winter night and when I woke up at 3 a.m. my house was freezing. The thermostat read in the low 50's. I had no heat. My gas boiler was silent. I panicked. What do you do at this time of night with no heat and sub-zero temperatures? Then I remembered Umbrella has a 24 hour emergency number. On the second ring, Ron Byrne answered the phone. First he calmed me down and made sure I was ok. Then he got to work and someone was at my house an hour later in the middle of the night to fix my boiler. Heat came on and I truly felt wrapped in a blanket of safety and protection, which is what Ron and his staff and his workers provide to members. I stay in my home, without constant worry about finances or my lack of knowledge about the things that go wrong or need repair in my home. I also get help with tasks I cannot do myself. Umbrella is there, even in the middle of a freezing night. I am grateful beyond words.

To readers - I have been a handyperson for Umbrella since June 2019, and in this short period of time have seen firsthand the value of this organization to our senior population and am very proud to be part of it. Ron and the staff in the office are very supportive, caring people whose clear objective is to assist seniors to remain in their home, providing necessary domestic services as needed. I share this view totally, as having worked in a nursing home for over 12 years (and still do), have sat with countless incoming and existing residents (especially ladies) who not only suffer the loss of their loved one, but now must face entering a nursing home and vacating their home as well. While all isn't necessarily bleak about this (there are some advantages), most would agree they'd do almost anything to remain in their home in lieu of this. We all know most family members try to assist as they can, but many are part of the sandwich generation, who still have young people at home, and trying to care for an aging parent is nearly impossible-regardless of their intentions. Enter groups like Umbrella, who do their best to make up the difference. As a retired senior myself and still working p/t, I am once again, very proud to be part of this organization and will continue to be a handyperson for them for as long as I'm physically able.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. Mike Hurley

Recently my Umbrella man wasn't satisfied with the output of mowing my tall grass backyard using my battery operated mower.

So the next day he returned with his gas powered mower and did a terriffic job of eliiminating the tall grass. We were both very pleased with the result.

Don't get me started on talking about Umbrella; I'll never stop. It is impossible to convey the benefits my sister and I [and now I alone] have received from being Umbrella clients. No matter what help we called Umbrella for, our needs were met just about immediately. We could not have asked for more pleasant and capable people willing to give us the help we needed. I have recommended Umbrella to several "older" friends and acquaintances who mentioned needing assistance with something. Every one of those people called me after their own dealings with Umbrella and "staff" with high praise for the service and servicers. cg

I am so grateful for Umbrella. As a recent new homeowner, I know all I have to do is call Umbrella whenever I have a problem with my house or work to be done. All of the handymen are very knowledgable and respectful, and you cannot beat the price. I also love knowing that in the event of an emergency, I can call Umbrella 24 hours/day. That gives me great peace of mind.

As a paid volunteer for Umbrella, I've had the pleasure of meeting many seniors over the past 4 yrs & enjoy greatly doing things to help them, wether it is driving to appts or cleaning, etc. Never realized the needs till I got involved. Wonderful services provided.

I have been with Umbrella since it was first conceived, launched and celebrated.
I felt I had found another brother, a brother who was put here for the express purpose of watching out for me. And, sure enough, it strikes me that way now. It's still here and it's still here to "watch my back. - M. Hatfield

I retired a few years ago but wasnt ready to sit on the couch. I found Umbrella and it sounded intriguing, a far cry from the cubicle world. It has been very rewarding, you can decide what tasks you want to perform, set your own hours and the Clients are SOOOO appreciative of even the little things you do.
One of my most rewarding days was showing up to one Client's house for the first time and smelling an obvious natural gas leak. Luckily it was an outside meter connection. Being a bit elderly, she could not smell the leak. We called the utility, they showed up in minutes , verified the leak and made the repair. That was in Nov '18. It is now Aug '19 and the Client is still thanking me for finding the leak. Now that's a rewarding day.
As for my advice : get off the couch, contact Umbrella, start working a make a difference in someone's life.

I have worked for umbrella since 2004 and have experienced many satisfied customers. Umbrella's ability to match workers with customers is very uncanny.
I thank umbrella for the opportunity to help satisfy their customers.

this is my second year as a volunteer with Umbrella. Umbrella does a world of good serving our seniors. I have developed a handful of weekly members who look forward to seeing me (and I them) every week & truly appreciate the assistance I am able to provide. I usually chit-chat with the folks I am helping for a few minutes before getting to work, usually following up on their week, their families, any concerns I need to be aware of, and catching on on each others jokes. I initially started out mowing lawns, but that quickly developed into all kinds of yard work, staining decks, washing windows, changing light bulbs, hanging bird feeders, and a number of other chores. Chores that have become harder to tackle for our senior citizens. It is truly a warm and wonderful experience for me to know that I am helping people who really need help with basic daily projects we all take for granted. I was looking for a volunteer organization to become involved with when I retired, and a friend referred me to Umbrella, and Umbrella has worked very well for me. The staff at Umbrella is always helpful, the seniors I work with are wonderful, and I truly look forward to my weekly visits helping people move forward with their daily lives while still living in their own homes. I certainly hope to continue with Umbrella for many years to come.

I've been using Umbrella services for over 10 years, since my husband died. I can't do any heavy work due to orthopedic problems. If it wasn't for the services provided by Umbrella, I wouldn't be able to keep up my home.
The people who have provided services are very competent and pleasant. On a rare occasion when I have had a problem with a service person, the issue was resolved by Umbrella promptly.

I find the office personnel very friendly and responsive to any need that I have that the organization is able to provide.

Twice I've had an emergency (water pipe broke) very early in the morning and a plumber was dispatched immediately to take of the situation.

I heard of Umbrella through a neighbor who used the service -- and still does. I have recommended Umbrella services to many others.

My wife and I are trying to stay in our home of almost 50 years and it becomes more difficult as we age. I did most of the upkeep and renovations on my house myself and had my own handyman business for a number of years. But now as I look out my window I see projects and upkeep not being done to health problems.It is very frustrating not to be able to do what you used to do easily. When I heard about Umbrella I met with Brian and soon became a member. They have helped with a number of projects and now I can look out my window and feel pride that my home is being taken care of. The reduced labor cost helps to do things on a fixed income that might not be possible at market priced labor. Umbrella gives us peace of mind we can continue to enjoy our home.

What a great organization! I have volunteered through Umbrella for several years. By providing assistance to those that can't do what seem to be simple tasks, they are helping people remain in the comfort of their homes and not have to move to care facilities.

I have been a supporter of Umbrella for decades. They always had the best fundraisers, using lots of umbrella themes! I rapidly came to the age group that this awesome agency serves. Bingo! With Ron Burns in my kitchen describing the overwhelming task of downsizing, I joined Umbrella with the huge goal of downsizing and selling a two family home, and moving into an accessible apartment to prepare for surgical procedure. I know I will miss many names but I started with a Paul M, and spent hours with Ron H. who so kindly worked with me to empty many closets, attic, and basement of my many “treasures”.
I am now in my fully accessible apartment (no more circular back stairs) to climb. I am sporting a super new hip, and have settled in with the help of Brian M a wonderful carpenter who built me shelves, put in my hand rails, and hung my photos. Thanks to Ty M and Nancy F for their early help. Now working with Ona, who has been delightful in helping me with my new place as I’m still recovering. Thank you all for helping me reach my goal. Lastly the wonderful office staff, Valerie and John always kind and helpful. Filling my request almost within hours.. Thank you all. Maryellen Rudolph

This program is a life changer for myself and my daughter, both disabled. We've been members for a couple years now. Tom is a life saver for yard help and handyman type stuff, while Dan is right on top of those pesky snow falls and keeps our drive and walk ways clear so everyone is safe. We've had house cleaners too, which worked out great. The list of available help we can get is amazing for a nominal yearly fee. We'd be lost without our Umbrella!

My wife and I have been members for about 1 year and have relied on help with snow blowing. Kenny has been very helpful, cordial and reliable. We anticipate using the service for more projects around the house. Highly recommended!!

I am glad i finally signed up with the umbrella.their service is affordable friendly and you can talk about things you may have concerns about and it wil be followed up. I recommend this company to the single women in the community

Umbrella allows me to live well AND within my means, in my lovely home. I am disabled with chronic pain that makes many activities of daily living impossible or extremely difficult.

With no judgment, before I was granted SS disability, Umbrella gave me the lowest membership rate, and sent me a life-saving house cleaner named Sandy. She's been my partner in maintaining my home now for over two years. A retired educator herself (as am I), she's got the strength that I don't have, and for modest recompense, keeps my home lovely. This weekly help, plus lowered rates on plumbers, handi-workers, etc, as needed, means that I can keep up with maintaining the appearance and value of my home. I also have roommates to make ends meet, and with Sandy cleaning all the public areas, that keeps the household running smoothly and pleasantly among us.

Every encounter with Umbrella feels respectful and is helpful. I am treated like a client, not a charity case.

I cannot say enough. I'd been living in a tiny, dull apartment somewhere without their help.

Umbrella was such a good find for me. The first thing they do is send someone to inspect your home. Areas that need attention are pointed out thus avoiding problems that could occur. After that at your request they send people who have been vetted to do jobs around the house. It is reassuring to know you can trust these strangers who come into your home. I tell my friends and family what a comfort it is to be a member of Umbrella.

My wife and I have been clients of Umbrella for many years. The people of Umbrella have helped us through some pretty tough times. They have been there when we needed an exterminator. to building a new front step. We still have Sylvia come once a week to help clean our house. They were very helpful when both my wife and I needed transportation to various Dr. appointments. They have bent over backwards when I was having financial trouble when it came time to pay our yearly dues.

Just became a client several months ago. I use a walker & wheelchair but still drive. Umbrella sent a wonderful woman to help with housework every other week. I plan on asking Umbrella for help with some other odd jobs that are not easy to find reliable, affordable people to come to the house and do. I am impressed with Ron and the office staff I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with. I am amazed at this organization’s effectiveness.

I called Umbrella in a near panic one evening, because the (4) globe lights over the mirror in my lavatory would not shut off, even when the fuse box switch was turned off . The room is small and would be quite hot in a short while, even with the door and window open.
Ron calmed me down, suggested that it was a bad switch and he'd get someone over in the morning to take care of it. In the meantime, I could (with heavy gloves) turn each bulb until it went out. I did. Felt very relieved and thankful, again, that we have an organization like Umbrella for us Seniors in the Capital District.

I have been a member of umbrella for a little more than two years. I am in my early 60's and own my own, two story home. I have some balance and mobility limitations and concerns. I have a very limited income.

I am a widow and my children, although living very close to me and willing to help out as they can, have young families with children all under the age of 3. I find Umbrella to be wonderful as they screen the people to do the work. I have had painting done, primarily...quite a bit of painting both inside and outside. Prior to Umbrella I have had several dealings with unethical and overpriced individuals who were not concerned at all with providing ethical, affordable service.
It is a relief to have workers screened and ready to do the work. Help with housework, vacuuming, washing floors, doing the stairs....moving things downstairs to the basement so I can organize.....and downsize....so many little details...a blessing.
My home has been brought to an acceptable standard because of the efforts of these angels.
It is very difficult to find affordable, reliable, and caring people to help me. I have found affordable, reliable and caring help through Umbrella.

I rely on Umbrella for maintaining my home. If they weren't around I wouldn't be able to keep my home. They are reliable resourceful and friendly. They provide workers at a reasonable rate from mowing grass to helping you finder reliable and cheaper workers to install things like a hot water heater. Their great!

Umbrella has made a great difference in my parents life. They provided services that helped my father with keeping their home up as his health declined. The people who have worked for umbrella have been reliable and kind. I recommend them highly and I'm thankful to Ron for his leadership.

Sincerely

JimHale

I was extremely impressed with the quality of treatment and work I received through Umbrella during 2018. Richie was very clear and efficient about the steps we would be going through to add a small bathroom to my house. I was pleased with promptness and results. Also, I had Morgan here to help me with a faucet replacement and a few other things I probably would have wrecked if I'd tried them myself. She knows what she is doing, is honest and worthy of the highest recommendation.

Been member of umbrella for 4 years. Able to find help with umbrella for many issues related to cleaning plumbing etc

I have been a member for over 10 years. At first, I infrequently used services because my macualar degeneration did not cause loss of vision. But gradually, I did use driving services for evening events because since 2011 I did not drive after dusk. Then in 2016 I realized that my driving days were over and have used the service for doctor appointments, shopping, meeting friends. I also have used their home inspection service and these have given me invaluable advice for maintenance and repairs to my home. I will be using their handyman services and expect to rely on the wonderful volunteers who offer a vast variety of support and help to seniors like me. Thank goodness for Umbrella. They are dependable and reliable.

I regard Umbrella as the best and cheapest insurance in town. For only $315 a year I know that in an emergency that help is just a phone call away -- 24 hours a day -- and that the Umbrella repair person will arrive at my home within 90 minutes. In addition to this wonderful gurantee, which is very comforting, I have often called upon Umbrella for the annoying problems other services aren't willing to handle or advice on larger issues. I have been a member for several years and have recommended Umbrella to many others. I plan to continue to be a member as long as I am "aging in place."

I am a senior citizen with COPD. Anytime I have a need for repair in my home Umbrella has always been there with assistance in a timely manner. The people who work for Umbrella are honest and wonderful. It is an incredible feeling to know whenever you need help whether it is a home repair or other assistance it it a phone call away. I really wonder if other areas in the country has any organization similar for its seniors and handicapped people. I feel that this type of service should be available all over America. The people at Umbrella have been wonderful. Thank-you so much. Barbara Carter

Umbrella of the Capital District helps seniors and persons with disabilities live comfortably and safely in their own homes by providing low cost home maintenance and a variety of personal services. They help them keep the two things they cherish most . . . their homes and their independence. It is an exceptional program that meets the need of seniors and persons with disabilities to remain self-sufficient in their own homes.

I have known Umbrella for around 4 years in a business capacity and now serve on their board. The work they do for seniors in helping them to stay in their homes and enjoy a better life style is amazing. The dedication of the executive directors is inspiring as is the volunteer help given by so many. I have been in the homes of some of the people they have helped and have witnessed first hand the great work that Umbrella do. There is such a great need in the communities they serve and Umbrella deserve and need all the help they can get. Their work in the community is outstanding and needs to be expanded as much as possible.

Umbrella has helped me a great deal. I have arthritis and am unable to do many of the things that need to be done. Whether getting the house ready for the change of seasons, or doing odd jobs that I can't do anymore. They are just a phone call away. I have one worker whom I know and trust. He can do almost anything, so I always ask for him. Some of my friends have gone to "maintenance free" condos. I have my own "maintenance free" living, and am able to stay in my house.

Umbrella has been a real life saver for me. The Handymen are great, and they have a Plumber who is quite simply a Genius. I would not be able to remain in my Home without their Help. Thank You for Being There.

"Umbrella" has the goal of providing low cost services to handicapped and older community members so that they can remain independent and stay in their own homes. This is accomplished by organizing a large number of volunteers who are able to almost any service that a client can no longer do for themselves. Based on my own experiences and observations, "Umbrella" is achieving this goal for the clients that have availed themselves of these services.

My wife and I are both disabled and doing basic chures around our home is difficult. Umbrella provides workers to help us do the basic jobs about our home such as cleaning our the raingutters. Umbrella also provides plumbers and electricians at a discounted rate that help make maintaining our home affordable. Umbrella has made it possible for us to stay in our home.

Umbrella has helped me maintain my independence in my home, the house keeper is lovely and helps me to do the things I can't do on my own very well any more.For larger problems like maintaining my heating system, I have great confidence in Umbrella directing me to the service provider I need. over the years Umbrella has been a great comfort to me.

We have been members of Umbrella for at least a 15 years and have used many of their services. Not just the workers who have mowed, raked, gardened, painted, and cleaned, but also the plumbers, and electricians. During this time we have had many differenet workers come to the house. They have all been friendly and have done their assigned tasks in the alloted time. Considering that they are paid a rather minimal hourly rate their dedication to their tasks is joy to see. It is also a great comfort to know that if we are not satisfied with the work all we have to do is call the Umbrella office for help. The office staff has also been very helpful and understanding. Over the years as we have had to have more help we have been very greatful that Umbrella is available to us.

I have been a customer of Umbrella for over four years. Umbrella of the Capital District provides an array of services which allow Seniors and People with Disabilities to maintain their own homes. Umbrella has supported my independence through allowing me to hire volunteers to support general home repair, grocery shopping, lawn care, snow removal, home repair screenings, and a number of other services. Via a modest Membership due, I have been able to be a part of my own community, receive needed supports, which has afforded me almost complete independence despite mobility issues.

I am a quadriplegic homeowner who has been a member for several years. It wasn't until I started to write this review that I realized just how important Umbrella is to my quality of life. Umbrella cleans my house, takes care of my lawn, has fixed plumbing emergencies, repaired doors and windows, painted, helped me find reliable contractor to fix my roof.. the list goes on. As a wheelchair user who loves the independence of living in my own house but simply can't do many of the things necessary to maintain a home, I rely on Umbrella to keep me safe and secure. One of the best things about the organization is that they know each of their members personally and care about how they are doing. That is pretty extraordinary!

I am an electrical contractor and I became affiliated with Umbrella two years ago when a friend of mine, who is a member of Umbrella, told me about their organization. I called their offices and met with Ron to get more information. I was immediately impressed by Ron's passion to keep senior citizens and people with disabilities from having to leave their own homes and enter a caring facility. Their program is wonderful, it allows seniors and disabled people to stay in their homes with peace of mind that their needs will be met with honest reputable workers at reasonable prices. Umbrella's interview process was thorough, and feedback from their clients, both positive and negative, is addressed right away. The staff, volunteers and workers are freindly outgoing people, and like myself, love to talk with the members while working in their homes. For some clients this may be their only social experience for some time, and it is apparent how much they enjoy the opportunity to chat. I feel that our services (as affiliates) provide more than just the completion of projects that they require, but it is a friendship and trust, as many will request a specific worker to return again in the future. I am honored to work for Umbrella, and I am relieved that as I approach my sunset years in life, I may one day need, and be able to rely on Umbrella to meet my needs.

I joined Umbrella after I retired in 1995. They interviewed me to make sure I was trustworthy and that impressed me. Over the years I have helped many people(old, disabled,or just mechanically inept) by making simple repairs in there homes. It might be as simple as the reset button on a GFI outlet or a new battery in a phone. Without Umbrella these people would be forced to call an electrician.

In 2009, Civic Ventures awarded Umbrella of the Capital District an Encore Opportunity Award for providing meaningful, paid work to people 50+. Out of over 100 applicants, Umbrella was one of eight winners. What's innovative about Umbrella's model is that it matches older adult clients with their peers - fellow older adults pursuing their encore careers - with the end goal of keeping clients living independently in their homes, longer. Umbrella is a terrific organization with a sustainable model.

I am 80 years old and a retired Union College professor. With the recent death of my wife of 46 years I now live alone in a rural setting that I love very much but which challenges my maintenance abilities. With the appearance of my Umbrella associate I have regained the freedom basic to travel and keeping my social and professional network intact. It is wondrous to me that Umbrella could find a person who lives near me who has the diversity of skills to both assist and advise on matters needing attention. I consider Umbrella one of the great social inventions of our region! Carl J. George, Glenville