Ottawa Maker's Shed
Dream it. Build it. Share it.
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We are rebuilding a fleet of five 28 ft pontoon boats for a local charity -
We built a motorized 25 ft revolving stage for a local theatre group -
We built a portable Stage for the Council on Aging of Ottawa -
A rotted, rusted safety hazard destined for the dump -
is now a cherished family heirloom
Ottawa Maker's Shed (OMS) is part of a international grassroots men’s health initiative called Men's Sheds.
Originating in Australia in the late 1990's, it then migrated to New Zealand, the British Isles, Canada and recently the USA, stopping along the way in other non-English speaking countries. The Canadian story started in Winnipeg in 2011. Today, there are Sheds in every province. withs over 150 Sheds across the country.
Simply put, a Men’s Shed is a group of men who get together in their community to develop new skills, discover new interests, and make new friends. But it’s so much more than that.
Symbolic of that backyard workshop where men share stories and tinker with wood, metal, software or electronics, a Men’s Shed is grounded in the idea that men communicate more effectively when they’re working “shoulder to shoulder” with other men.
A Men’s Shed is a relaxed and inclusive place to learn new skills or pick up old hobbies. It’s a place to share stories and form friendships. It’s a place to do that thing you’ve always wanted to do—or do nothing at all. It's a place where everyman feels valued and engaged in his community, experiencing purpose, belonging and well-being.
No two Sheds are alike. Some Shedders gather in a workshop to build and fix things. Others focus on hiking or gardening or cooking.
Forget itineraries and agendas. A men’s shed is whatever its members want it to be.
Ottawa Makers Shed is a Men’s Shed with a workshop focus.
The Ottawa Maker's Shed is a Men's Shed with a focus on being Stewards of Craftsmanship, putting those skills to use for community service and transferring those skill to future generations.
We have full woodworking, sheet metal three types of welders and a plasma cutter, 3D subtractive printing (CNC), Laser Cutting/Engraving and plastic moulding capacity. What’s more, we have the skills to use them.
Our members cross age, culture, and socioeconomic status. We team up with local organizations to do special projects that support their community. We aspire to create a welcoming environment where men create shared experiences, celebrate accomplishments, and build community.
Objectives
If you are or have ever dreamed of being an inventor, maker, operator, maintainer or teacher, with a title time on your hands, OMS is the place to apply and share your skills and learn new ones ,while doing good for the community. You will make new friends and help others, as you help yourself.
Social Connections lead to better health
As social beings, we need community and connection to thrive. But unfortunately, sometimes, as we get older, we begin to lose our social connections because of normal circumstances like retirement or simply living in a more digital world.
Men’s Sheds help to enhance the well-being of all men by encouraging social inclusion.
Involvement in Men’s Sheds is always casual and attendance is optional.
What we expect from our Members:
• Kindness and respect for other Shedders
• Open-mindedness and compassion
What Shedders can expect from us
• A safe and friendly community to share ideas, talents, stories and laughs
• New friends
• Projects that matter
• Skills transfer to and from yourself and the broader community