I've been involved for several years. If you don't yet have one in your area, are handy at fixing things and have the inclination - contact them for info on starting one up.

Recently I revived a $2K CPAP machine and rewired a homeless guy's old laptop to replace a broken power and missing battery.

Every event is something new!

I have been a "repair mentor" at our "repair studio" for 3+ years. It's very rewarding. We did have to set some ground rules: (clean your fan/vac, bring batteries, etc). Collaborated with our local library.

We have one in my town, meets once a month at the local community centre. I've only been there once, but It's pretty awesome seeing all the stuff people bring in to get repaired.

Is it growing? Is anyone in Austin TX starting one up?

We have at least one in Portland, and they do both clothing and electronics repairs. It's great to see a repairability movement!