Become A Member
Umbrella strongly supports the "Aging at home" philosophy and is committed to the idea of seniors helping seniors gain confidence to live comfortably and independently in their own home for as long as desirable and practical.
Some of our members were born in the house they live in today. Some have held prestigious jobs, others are known in the art or music world. Most have lived in their neighborhoods for many years, raised families, and given to their communities. Now they need a little help in order to stay in the homes they love.
If you reside in the Capital District, have homeowners insurance, and are at least 62 years old or have a disability that keeps you from maintaining your home, you qualify for membership in Umbrella.
Memberships are charged yearly and are calculated on a sliding scale based on your income and whether you have a one or two-story home. Many of our members survive on social security and small pensions. Those who are more fortunate pay more so that Umbrella can continue to operate and serve people of all income levels.
Membership fees are tax deductible.
If you'd like to learn more or become a member, please call the Umbrella office at 518-346-5249 during normal business hours.
Click HERE to download our brochure and HERE to download our current membership rate sheet.
What People Are Saying
“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’ve been using Umbrella for about 4 months now and am thrilled! I’ve been able to get tons of repairs done around the house without breaking the bank. They are prompt, professional, courteous, and caring. SO glad I found Umbrella!
— Jean H
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!
— Linda S.
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.
— Norma
"I'm at a stage when sometimes I need help and sometimes I don't. I consider your group an investment in my future... and it's nice to know all I need to do is make a call when I need help. Make sure you know I truly appreciate all the folks who have been here not only to do a job, but to be so kind and friendly. Thanks for existing... and I do tell people about your services."
— Jackie P.
“Just a note to tell you how pleased I have been with the services you provide: hand railings for inside the house in 2011 (after my one hospital stay so far!), exterior painting of the garage front in 2012, Steve C.’s plumbing services this summer, and other minor things. Umbrella is prompt, courteous, and pleasant—which reflects their Director. Thanks! "
— Anne P.
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 playhouse , 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.
— Skip D.
“Thanks for the work of Umbrella. I called Monday at 9:30am and at 4pm I had a new air conditioner in my bedroom. Terry did a great job in a short time!”
— Tom W.
" Anne and I would like to thank you for providing us with the help we need. Without the wonderful people who help us with driving, lawn maintenance, house cleaning, and plumbing we would not be able to have the same quality of life, especially for two seniors."
— Anne and Andre A.
“My husband and I are huge fans of this program, Umbrella of the capital district. we have been grateful members for two years and have always been more than happy with the entire process, from calling in a problem that needs fixing to getting it resolved. the people who answer the phones are friendly and efficient, very professional. every one of the workers who has come to the house, including plumbers, electricians, a small engine repair person to basic handy people have been wonderful. this program is the best -- affordable and extremely helpful in keeping us in our home. I wish my friends and family in other states had this. we sing the praises of this Umbrella program all the time.”
— Linda S.
I have been a client of Umbrella of the Capital District 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
