Acerca de
Men's Shed
What is a Men's Shed
The Men's Shed is a grassroots, community-based organization with a very simple concept at its core: providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where men can gather and work on meaningful projects. The idea is rooted in promoting health and well-being, especially mental health, by fostering social interaction and camaraderie.
​
Originating in Australia in the 1990s, the Men's Shed movement has since expanded globally, with thousands of "Sheds" now established in countries including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, and the United States, among others.
​
At the Men's Shed, men come together to share skills, have a laugh, and contribute to their communities. The typical activities vary from one Shed to another, reflecting the diversity of the participants. Some Sheds focus on traditional woodworking, while others might engage in metalworking, electronics, gardening, other crafts, or simply play games and enjoy each other's company. Many Sheds undertake projects that benefit their local community, like building furniture for schools, repairing bicycles for local kids, or renovating community facilities.
​
Beyond the practical skills and community service, perhaps the most important aspect of the Men's Shed is the sense of companionship it provides. For many men, particularly those who are retired or living alone, loneliness and isolation can be significant challenges. The Men's Shed offers a place to forge new friendships, engage in lively conversation, and connect with others in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
​
Men's Sheds have been recognized for their potential role in promoting men's health. Unlike more formal health promotion campaigns, the Shed's informal setting helps to break down barriers and allows men to open up about health issues in a comfortable and friendly environment.
​
The Men's Shed movement is more than just about having a space for hobbies. It's about fostering connection, promoting health and well-being, and building stronger communities. By providing a space where men can feel a sense of purpose and belonging, the Men's Shed movement is helping to address some of the challenges men face in today's society.
​
For more information, or to get the latest updates on meeting locations or ongoing projects, please email a.pierre@portagecrc.com or visit us on Facebook by clicking here!
Let’s Work Together
Do you have a project idea in mind for the Men's Shed to work on?
​
We invite and welcome project ideas at our Men's Shed! However, it's important to understand that our Men's Shed is a collective of volunteers, each contributing their time and talents out of goodwill. Because of this, the acceptance and implementation of any project ideas submitted is subject to the approval of the Shed's members. This ensures our activities align with our members' interests, abilities, and availability. We also want to emphasize that our members are under no obligation to undertake any projects suggested. We value the spirit of camaraderie and community that defines our Men's Shed, and we strive to maintain this as our primary focus. Thank you for your understanding and your support!