Set up in mid-September 2018, Portadown Men’s Shed has been a huge success, attracting an incredible 30 members in that time. Founding member Alan McDowell speaks very proudly of their community and explains how the idea for a Men’s Shed came about. “We identified a need for such a club. There was nothing really to do for men with a bit of spare time on their hands or for men who were maybe isolated, had mental health problems or addictions.
Set up in mid-September 2018, Portadown Men’s Shed has been a huge success, attracting an incredible 30 members in that time. Founding member Alan McDowell speaks very proudly of their community and explains how the idea for a Men’s Shed came about.
“We identified a need for such a club. There was nothing really to do for men with a bit of spare time on their hands or for men who were maybe isolated, had mental health problems or addictions.
"We felt that we could create a space for lads to meet up, enjoy a bit of craic, have a cup of tea and participate in projects.
“We were lucky in that the charitable organisation ABC community Networks gave us an old shed on their premises for our workshop. Some local businesses were very helpful in donating materials, tools and funding, which helped us get the shed up and running.”
Alan says that membership is growing nearly every week. Their members come from all walks of life, every religion and from contrasting backgrounds.
The shed opens on Monday evenings, Wednesday mornings and due to demand they now open on Friday mornings also.
There is a great team spirit here, everyone looks out for one another
The men get up to a wide range of activities, and members are encouraged to pursue any projects that they wish to take on. “We are open to new ideas all of the time. We’ve done cooking and baking classes, cross-community gardening projects and we’ve held health and wellbeing courses. We have constructed some wooden window boxes and wooden bird boxes and donated them to the new leisure centre in the area and also to some local elderly residents.”
Portadown Men’s Shed is a cross-community organisation which welcomes men of all backgrounds.
Alan points out that “the aim of the shed is to support, care for and hopefully empower people to find a new talent. There is a great team spirit here, everyone looks out for one another.”
The shed is located on 82 Thomas Street, Portadown and everyone is welcome. If you are interested in joining or are looking for more information, contact Alan on 0754 537 3413.
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