Getting it together
New Garden City Men’s Shed group reaching out to community
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Ben Salnikowski is encouraging men in northwest Winnipeg, and beyond, to learn what men’s shed is all about.
At press time, the plan was for the new Garden City Men’s Shed group to get together for the first time on the second floor of Garden City Community Centre/Seven Oaks Sportsplex (725 Kingsbury Ave.) on Sept. 17.
According to Salnikowski, who lives in the North End, the idea behind the group is straightforward — it’s about men getting together regularly, making new friends, and doing interesting things in a relaxed setting.
Photo by Simon Fuller
Part of the rationale behind men’s shed groups is the pathway of life — many men’s lives are focused on family and work and numerous other things, and when retirement or lifestyle changes come along, some of them then have an opportunity to spend more time on different activities and forming new relationships.
Participants might enjoy a friendly game of cards, learn new skills such as woodcarving, or just enjoy a cup of coffee and have a conversation.
“We’re hoping to spread the word about this,” Salnikowski, 80, said, noting he’s currently part of a similar group that meets in Elmwood.
He said a few members of that group, including himself, are now creating one closer to where they live in the northwest of the city.
Salnikowski points to the success of other men’s shed groups across the city, including the well-attended Woodhaven Men’s Shed group: “They have many members; they play cards, they have a music group, and they even made a stained-glass window for Westwood Community Church.”
Part of the rationale behind men’s shed groups is the pathway of life — many men’s lives are focused on family and work and numerous other things, and when retirement or lifestyle changes come along, some of them then have an opportunity to spend more time on different activities and forming new relationships.
Margie Reis, the centre’s general manager, is helping facilitate the new group and is a big supporter of its goals. She said its presence at the centre will complement its existing 55+ programming, which includes exercise classes and pickleball.
“This is a welcome addition for men in our community,” Reis said, adding it’s also a good way to encourage more men to come to the centre and integrate themselves into a social environment.
Photo by Simon Fuller
From left: Ben Salnikowski and Margie Reis are pictured recently at Garden City Community Centre/Seven Oaks Sportsplex (725 Kingsbury Ave.) with some assorted woodcarvings. The venue will play host to the new Garden City Men’s Shed group, starting in September.
“Our community is made up of people from so many different backgrounds, and while some groups of men find things to do together, others need a little encouragement,” Reis added.
The Garden City Men’s Shed group will meet on Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m., starting on Sept. 17. All men are welcome, and there’s no registration required.
For more information, email bsalnikowski@gmail.com or call 204-339-7203.
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