Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of our most often asked Questions. Search through the Questions, then click on a Question to see the Answer. Click the Question a second time to close the Answer. Or you can click on another Question and the previous Answer will close by itself… neatness counts.

How do we find a meeting place?

Most communities have halls that are available. , Rental costs, however, may be prohibitive. In which case some community organizations will share their meeting space in exchange for help maintaining grounds or buildings. Consider approaching your Municipal Government, local Hospital or even local private industry to see if they can provide a meeting space.

How do we select and develop leaders?

Two things to keep in mind about leadership:

(1) Every member of a Men's shed is equal and once meeting and sharing ideas, group leadership will emerge as trust develops.
(2) If the group is primarily retirees, it is good to have a team of two or three lead any aspect of the group so that if one is unavailable the other team member(s) can carry on. Besides it's more fun to do anything as a team than to work alone.

How do we “pass the torch” to new leaders?

Often, when one person is ready to hand on the torch, it is helpful to have a co-leader working with the leader for 3-6 months to learn the ropes. This assures group continuity, assures the person leaving office that their efforts will be continued and gives the new leader a sense of confidence in his role.

How do we get known in our community?

Here are a few suggestions:
• invite local media to do a story about this new group in the community.
• have a sale of member-made crafts or a BBQ in the parking lot of the local hardware store (with permission of course) and have brochures to share with customers.
• make friends with your municipal council and offer to help with community projects.
• approach existing Community Leaders, Service groups and Organizations and local Health Care providers who can help spread the word

Should we get insurance?

Insurance is always a good idea in our litigious society.
• Liability insurance brings peace of mind to the members.
• Officers and Director's Insurance protects group leaders.
• Accident insurance may be needed if your group has a Workshop with power tools.

Should we incorporate?

Incorporation makes your group a “legal entity” and can be a benefit when applying for grants. Or consider partnering with a Community Agency, Municipality, or a Health Care provider in your area when grants are wanted.

Where can we look for grants?

Grants specifically for Men's Sheds are available through HelpAge Canada in 2022 and 2023. Other grant sources are New Horizon Grants and Ontario Senior's Grants. Contact us for details and advice.

Should we have a website?

Since people increasingly look for resources online, a website is a good idea. Yet, starting sheds are small. Many will have no web expertise within their membership.

MSO can provide your starting shed with a simple website at no cost (connected to the MSO website). No need for technical know how, just provide your local information, maybe a photo or two, a paragraph or two, then our Mens Sheds Ontario webmaster will create and host a web page for you.

Should we join MSO and/or CMSA?

We believe that together we are stronger:

In Canada, the kinds of government agencies that might help us are typically organized provincially, so we need a provincial voice to work with them. But membership is voluntary. We have to earn your mandate. To that end, here are our founding principals:

• Men's Sheds Ontario (MSO) specifically state that we will have no control over or responsibility for a local Shed. Your Shed is totally under your control.

• We are here to assist you and your Men’s Shed as you organize and grow.

• Being linked with the Provincial and National Men's Shed organization does, however, have advantages, not the least of which is the sharing of ideas, support, experience and the providing of a website.

• For more details see: Why a Provincial Association?

Why do Men's Sheds exclude women?

One of the foundational aspects of Men's Sheds is to promote "the health and well-being" of men. Some health concerns, especially things that develop with age, are best shared with others of the same sex.

In Australia and Ireland, women, who find the Men's Shed philosophy helpful, have established Women's Sheds (not yet in Canada). Here women too, can share concerns about the unique health concerns women face.

This is an important topic for many, so we invite you to watch the following Documentary where TV personality Bettina Arndt explores the premise that Men's Shed should remain Men Only, but with activities and training open to all members of society.

Bettina concludes that people involved in the Men's Shed movement need to take action to protect these male sanctuaries that enrich the spirit and even save the lives of some men. Bettina says; "Come on men – grow a pair and stand up for men!" 25:34

Frequently Asked Questions

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