Ottawa Maker's Shed
part of the worldwide Men's Shed movement
-
We are rebuilding a fleet of five 28 ft pontoon boats for a local charity -
We also built a 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
is part of the worldwide Men's Shed movement
What is a Men’s Shed?
Originating in Australia, Men’s Sheds is an international grassroots movement.
A typical Men’s Shed is a relaxed and inclusive place to learn new skills and 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.
Forget itineraries and agendas. A men’s shed is whatever its members want it to be. The Ottawa Maker's Shed is a Men's Shed with a focus on being Stewards of Craftsmanship.
Ottawa Makers Shed is a Men’s Shed with a workshop focus.
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.
Objectives
If you are or have ever aspired to be an inventor, maker, operator, maintainer or teacher, with time on your hands, we are the place to apply and share those skills and learn new ones while doing good for the community.
OMS operates an open, industrial-style workshop where volunteers collaborate on projects that provide tangible benefit to the community. Our work is typically undertaken at the request of registered charities, community groups, and public organizations and is guided by public benefit, safety, and feasibility.
Our activities include:
- Design and prototyping of practical solutions for community use
- Fabrication and repair services for charitable organizations
- Skills-based education and mentoring related to workshop tools and techniques
- Outreach and collaboration with community partners
Who We Serve
OMS exists to benefit the broader community.
Projects are selected based on:
- the public benefit provided;
- the nature of the requesting organization; and
- OMS’s capacity to deliver the work safely and effectively.
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 Shedders
• 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 a broader community