Winston-Salem Volunteer Honored for 2,600 Home Repairs
Local volunteer John Woodmansee helps seniors stay safe at home through his long-term repair work.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Home Repair
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Winston-Salem resident John Woodmansee has been honored with the AARP North Carolina Andrus Award for his long-term commitment to community service. At 95 years old, Woodmansee has completed over 2,600 home repairs for local older adults since 2015.
Why it matters
Woodmansee's work helps local seniors maintain the safety of their homes, allowing them to remain independent as they age. His efforts highlight the critical role that volunteer-led maintenance programs play in supporting aging-in-place initiatives for homeowners.
Since 2015, the 95-year-old volunteer has finished more than 2,600 repairs. He currently maintains a schedule of volunteering six days per week.
The players
John Woodmansee
A 95-year-old volunteer in Winston-Salem who has completed over 2,600 home repairs for older adults.
AARP North Carolina
The state branch of the national organization focused on the needs and interests of older people, which issues the annual Andrus Award.
Shepherd's Center of Greater Winston-Salem
A local community organization that facilitates services for older adults, including home repair programs.
The details
Woodmansee supports the Shepherd's Center of Greater Winston-Salem by providing minor home repairs that address safety concerns for older residents. Beyond his own labor, he mentors new volunteers to ensure the program can continue meeting local repair needs.
Timeline
2015: John Woodmansee began his volunteer work with the Shepherd's Center.
October 2026: John Woodmansee received the AARP North Carolina Andrus Award.
The Home Front
Volunteer-led maintenance programs serve as a vital supplement to the formal support networks intended to help seniors age in place. These initiatives follow the precedents established by the Older Americans Act's support for independent living by keeping homes safe and accessible.
If you or an older relative need assistance with household safety, research local volunteer programs like those offered by the Shepherd's Center. Homeowners should regularly audit their living space for trip hazards and simple maintenance needs that can affect daily safety.
The takeaway
Volunteering to help neighbors with maintenance can significantly extend the time older adults spend in their own homes. Consider reaching out to your local senior center to see if they need skilled handypersons to assist with minor property repairs.
Further reading
Learn more about local programs for maintaining your residence in the Home Repair section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WXII.
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