Danny Williams founded the Lac Brome Men's Shed to create a safe space for older men to come together for activities, support, and friendship. The goal is simple: to boost mental and physical health and create a sense of belonging, following a global movement that began in Australia in the late 90s. According to a 2022 Mental Health Commission of Canada Evidence Brief, of the estimated 4,000 suicide deaths in Canada each year, close to 75% are men.
Founder Danny Williams and his granddaughter.
These spaces hope to reduce loneliness, foster social connections, and offer a sense of purpose. Plus, they're all about skill development and knowledge-sharing. The Lac-Brome Men's Shed has been thriving since 2019, and now that Williams has moved to the Pointe-Claire area, he wants to kickstart a West Island Men's Shed.Â
Members of the Lac-Brome Men's Shed with Isabelle Charest, MNA of Brome-Missisquoi.
Activities may include:
volunteer community projects,
the development of a full woodworking workshop,
a social games center (for example, pool table, foosball, ping pong table, darts, and model trains),
boating and fishing outings in the summertime, cooking classes, community activities, music/jam sessions, golf activities, water sports, guest speakers etc.
Over time, the hope is to work with local communities and community organizations, contribute to school programs, raise funds for food banks, and assist individuals in need - whatever the community and members need.
It is important to note that Men's Sheds are gender-inclusive organizations. Activities, volunteer opportunities, workshops, and training are open to all. The participation of the entire community is encouraged and appreciated.
They're currently looking for a suitable space to establish a center that can be shared with other community groups, and are inviting all to join! To get involved, you can contact Danny at dwilliams0826@sbcglobal.netÂ
