Men’s Shed comes to Medicine Hat

Dave Williamson · Unison News · Posted: May 29, 2024

This year a Men’s Shed was opened at Unison’s Veiner Centre in Medicine Hat. Men’s Sheds are non-profit groups supporting senior men. 

They are an Australian 1995 movement that is now an international phenomenon, enhancing — even saving — the lives of men and building better communities.

They provide a friendly place where men (usually over 50) and retirees get together to tinker, tell stories and have a good time. All this is to ward off loneliness and depression brought on by sitting on the couch with nothing to do. 

Seniors have a terrific amount of experience and knowledge to contribute to the Shed and share with each other. 

The term Shed refers to the meeting place. It could be a garage, a workshop, or a community facility. Men can just chat or engage in activities together.  

We can volunteer, build things for the community, fix bikes for schools, or take cooking classes, anything we like. 

The membership decides what they are going to do, perhaps get speakers in or go on a hike together. Larger projects may require a workshop or garages.

A Men’s Shed is a dedicated, welcoming shared place where men come together — regardless of their background or ability. We share knowledge, learn new skills, develop old ones, have a bit of fun and make new friends. 

Sheds give men somewhere to go, something to do, someone to talk to.

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