Broken vacuums, busted TVs and damaged clothing could be rescued by handy volunteers who will help residents repair household items at monthly Dakota County Fix-It Clinics.

Upcoming Fix-It Clinics will be held: Saturday, April 16, noon–3 p.m., Inver Glen Library, Inver Grove Heights Saturday, May 21, noon–3 p.m., Heritage Library, Lakeville Saturday, June 18, noon–3 p.m., Galaxie Library, Apple Valley Bring up to three items that need fixing or mending, such as radios, lamps and clothes. All clothing must be clean. Bring tools or parts that you think might be helpful. Repair-savvy volunteers will guide residents through each step, from troubleshooting to a completed repair.

Fix-It Clinics reduce unnecessary trash sent to landfills and teach people helpful repair skills.

Give and get free outdoor gear at upcoming swap event

Residents are invited to bring new and used outdoor gear to the Dakota County community swap on Saturday, April 30 from 1–3 p.m. at Dakota Lodge in Thompson County Park in West St. Paul.

The free event is open to all new and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Bring usable outdoor gear for someone else and take home something you need. Tents, backpacks, camping gear and clean, usable outdoor clothing of all sizes and genders are accepted. Anything in the swap area is up for grabs. This event is open to all.

The last outdoor gear swap welcomed 27 attendees, who brought 71 items. More than 428 pounds of useful camping equipment, outdoor clothes and additional items found new homes and were kept out of the trash.

If you can't make the event, early drop-off options are available by emailing [email protected] or calling 952-891-7557.