Seven Springs Men’s Shed, a new community group, brings men together to work on wood projects, and also to share skills and build community.
(Martin Poole photo)
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A new community group is taking shape just outside Parksville, bringing men together through woodworking, shared projects and, most importantly, friendship.
The Seven Springs Men’s Shed held its first gathering on Nov. 2, marking the beginning of an initiative aimed at providing men with a welcoming place to connect, share skills and support one another. Organized by Darren Michalczuk, the group is being established on a roughly 50-acre property about five minutes outside Parksville.
The idea grew out of Michalczuk’s involvement
The idea grew out of Michalczuk’s involvement with a similar local group that promoted men’s health. One of its leaders approached him about starting a woodworking group with the same objectives. As an elementary school teacher who also works in construction, Michalczuk felt the idea was a natural fit.
“I had a lot of woodworking tools that I was willing to donate and found a property that we could rent,” he said.
With support from another local resident Jim Bennett, work began on the paperwork and arrangements needed to get the organization started.
While woodworking will be at the heart
While woodworking will be at the heart of the Men’s Shed, Michalczuk said its primary purpose is to promote men’s mental health by creating opportunities for men to spend time together and build friendships. He believes working alongside others provides a natural environment for conversations that might otherwise be difficult to start.
“I’m sure it’s a scientific fact that when guys get together and work on something, whether it’s a building project or fixing an engine on a vehicle, it is the best time to chat and connect,” Michalczuk said.
He added having a shared activity can make it easier for men to open up and develop relationships without the formality of sitting down for counselling or therapy.
The group also hopes to contribute
The group also hopes to contribute to the upkeep of the property, which includes farmland. Members will have opportunities to help with chores, repairs and other projects, giving them a sense of purpose while putting their practical skills to use.
“Simply put, the goal is to connect a community of men,” Michalczuk said.
Although the group has only held one official gathering so far, plans are underway to prepare the space for future activities. Members are expected to work with wood and other materials on projects benefiting the farm property, the wider community and individual participants.
The property owners have asked that the group wait until members have registered before providing further details about access to the site and meeting arrangements.
Men interested in joining the Seven Springs Men’s Shed or learning more about its activities can contact Michalczuk at darren@braincodes.blue.
