Dear Kathy

This is the first “Dear Kathy” column. I encourage you to call or write with any questions that you would like answered regarding the program. Questions can range from services offered, membership perks, service providers, or anything else pertaining to the program.

We have had several people ask why their “handyman” isn’t on our list of service providers. I will try to answer that question today.

We feel very strongly about making sure that people or companies that we recommend are licensed and insured. We check references verifying the service provider’s price, quality, responsiveness, punctuality and professionalism. We also check with the Better Business Bureau and the State Department of Commerce and Insurance to ensure providers do not have any outstanding complaints.

We know there are individuals who are not licensed or insured and who are performing similar services requested by our members, but not all will be reliable and trustworthy. Because of our commitment to recommend only licensed and insured providers, we regret that we will not be able to include those honest, hardworking individuals who do high-quality work at a fair price but do not meet our criteria.

-- Kathy Sergeant, Program Manager