Six years ago, John Dicks found himself captivated by radio interviews featuring Doug Mackie, a key figure in the Men’s Sheds Canada community. John later had the opportunity to chat with Doug about the difference Men’s Sheds can make in a community, and he was inspired to make a difference. After retirement, the chance came around for John to fulfill his goal of starting a Men’s Shed:

“When I found out last fall about the money that was available through HelpAge Canada [to launch a Men’s Shed], we decided it was time.”

John was repairing bikes at the time with a group called Welcoming Wheels, a Halifax-based community initiative held at the Ecology Action Centre that provides bikes, safety gear, and cycling training to newcomers. Inspired by his experiences there, John proposed the idea of establishing a Men’s Shed within the Ecology Centre. This idea garnered enthusiasm, and the Ecology Centre played a crucial role in kickstarting the Shed – something John is incredibly grateful for.

“It’s important – really important – to mention that we have this community partner through The Ecology Action Centre.” said John. “That’s the success of this for us; we haven’t had to start at ground zero.” With the help of the Ecology Action Centre, The Bike Shed was able to gain great success in a short amount of time – around 15 men join each week!

Shedders with The Bike Shed use their collective skills to repair bikes and donate them to members in their community, all while forming last friendships working side by side with other local men.

Ronald, a member of The Bike Shed, said, “It’s very satisfying going out and being in a nice environment. You’re surrounded by good folk, and you’re learning a lot. It’s very gratifying knowing that the bikes are going to somebody that needs it.” Another Shedder, Barry, shared his experience, saying, “I worked in my career for 38 years, sitting at a desk, eight hours a day. I like getting into a shop, using my hands, and fixing things.”

As a takeaway for readers who may be thinking of starting their own Shed, John highlighted how valuable connecting with other community organizations can be:

“I can’t say enough about how important it was that one that I was participating in another program already in that space, knowing that the space was not being used at all during the day. That created a window.” He also emphasized the importance of researching various grants available for these initiatives.

“The grant from HelpAge Canada helped us in a number of ways. We were able to rent a space around the corner; it’s a multipurpose room that was able to hold a big enough group that we could have several people in at one time.” They also used the start-up grant to purchase a kettle, supplies, and refreshments that helped them in welcoming men to the Shed. The Bike Shed is just one example of how organizations can work together to create powerful, welcoming spaces. Check out our story of the Cold Lake Men’s Shed and how they partnered with another local organization to bring their Shed to life and make strides for older people in their community together.