A new opportunity exists for those that are retired or new to town to find a sense of purpose, do some good, while at the same time forge some new friendships along the way.
The Men’s Shed officially opened May 14 on Lansdowne Avenue in Kingsville, right across from Mettawas Station, providing residents a chance to build, learn a new skill, or just hang out for some good conversation.
Founded in Australia in 1993, there are over 3,300 sheds across the world, including almost 100 in Canada, with the new one in Kingsville being the only shed from here to London, Ontario.
Working “shoulder to shoulder” is the group’s motto, and board members Kent Williams, Ian Stephans, Chad Nantais and Jeff Battison were clearly excited to share their vision with a steady stream of residents that made their way to the shed at the back of the Kingsville Military Museum property.
“The sky’s the limit,” said Stephans. “There is a social element and a doing element. It’s all up to the interests of the new membership as to what we do.”
Williams shared, “This is for those with some free time on their hands and we are looking to align ourselves with groups from the town and community that could use our help.”
Cottam resident Bob Verkoeyen was the first to drop by the open house and said that he was looking for a chance to socialize with other retired guys and maybe even pick up a new skill or two.
The new group will meet for now on Thursdays from 9:30 am until 11 am, with a hope to expand hours as the membership — which is free — grows. As a registered non-profit, the organization is always looking for donations and sponsorship from local residents and businesses.
