“This is a good thing to do. There are other things I do in my retirement but this is one of the best,” says Dr. Tom Woodworth, a member of the Grand Traverse Men’s Shed — a group of senior men who do community-based projects together.
To join this program, you don’t have to be a “handy man”, you can simply learn. “I have never been much of a handy person my wife will certainly tell you that,” says Dr. Tom Woodworth.
While the priority is bettering their community and keeping busy, friendship is also a big part of why they’re here.
“In our age bracket 60+ there is a lot of depression, isolation so we’re trying to provide an avenue to escape that,” says Jim Novak, the Executive Director.
The men come from all different backgrounds but share one common goal – working “shoulder to shoulder” with other senior men. “We have everything from lumber men to doctors, to business people, teachers and geologists,” says Jim Novak.
Many describe it as a brotherhood –making a different here in their community with their countless projects. Like building outdoor yard games for the upcoming Nation Cherry Festival.
“There’s a lot of negative in the world and this is a real positive,” says Dr. Tom Woodworth.
If you are looking to join or would like more information,
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