Wow – April already! And we’ve seen a time change for (hopefully) the last time in our lives! About the only thing I’ll regret about not having to shift the clocks is that it was my annual cue to change batteries in clocks and smoke detectors. I’ll have to find a different way to remind myself… As always, suggestions and submissions for this newsletter are welcome and encouraged. I would especially like to have some more “Cool Tools” to display! What has Bowen Island Men’s Sh

This Code of Conduct outlines how members of the Bowen Island Men’s Shed are expected to behave toward fellow Shedders, IPS School students, staff, parents, and the wider community. As members, we are expected to support the values of the Bowen Island Men’s Shed and to follow the Shed Constitution and By-Laws. Maintaining a high standard of conduct is essential to building trust among members and with our partner, Island Pacific School (IPS). This Code is intended to help ens

Men's Sheds have become a beacon of community spirit, providing a space where men can come together to work on projects, share skills, and foster friendships. These gatherings are not just about woodworking or metalworking; they are about building connections and supporting one another. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of Men's Shed monthly gatherings, the types of projects that can be undertaken, and the positive impact these initiatives have on individual

Isolation can be a silent struggle, especially for men. On Bowen Island, this issue is becoming increasingly apparent. As the community grows, so does the need for connection among its male residents. This blog post explores the importance of fostering relationships, the impact of isolation, and practical steps to create a supportive environment for men on Bowen Island. Eye-level view of a serene forest path on Bowen Island Understanding the Impact of Isolation Isolation can

Men's health is often overlooked in discussions about overall wellness, yet it plays a crucial role in the fabric of our communities. The statistics are alarming: men are less likely to visit a doctor, more likely to engage in risky behaviors, and face higher rates of certain diseases. This reality calls for a concerted effort to build community through men's health initiatives. By fostering environments that prioritize men's health, we can create stronger, healthier communit

Wow – 2026 is already 1/12th in the can – I’m always amazed at how so little time seems to elapse between newsletters! We’ve had a relatively-quiet January from the Shed perspective, except for the important milestone of our first Annual General Meeting (more below). It’s hard for me to digest the fact that we’ve only just started and yet we’ve accomplished so much! As always, suggestions and submissions are encouraged! I would especially like to have some more “Cool Tools” t

Welcome – and Happy New Year! Well, 2025 is almost entirely behind us – and for our friends south of the border, it’s been a tumultuous 12 months! Luckily we have escaped relatively unscathed up here in Canadia, and as a result we’ve got a lot to be thankful for. We have certainly learned that democracy can be fragile, and therefore we are all responsible for safeguarding what we have. Our Bowen Men’s Shed had a tremendous first year, and our success should give us great prid