Building Purpose and Belonging Shoulder-to-Shoulder: Exploring the Social and Emotional Impacts of the Squamish Men’s Shed

BACKGROUND: Older men face significant health inequities compared to women, with the transition to retirement often exacerbating these differences. OBJECTIVE: This study explored the benefits of participation in the Squamish Men's Shed (SMS) in British Columbia, Canada. METHODS: Using a case study design, semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 members aged 55 and older. FINDINGS: Thematic analysis identified four overarching themes: A Meaningful Use of Time, The Desire to Give Back, Finding Friendship Within the Shed, and Well-Being as a By-Product. Findings described the Shed as a valuable space to maintain structure and purpose postretirement, foster community engagement, and cultivate social connection. While mental health was rarely an explicit motivation for participation, members described enhanced well-being as an indirect outcome. The Shed also provided opportunities for intergenerational contribution, reinforcing a sense of usefulness and generativity. DISCUSSION: The findings highlight the Shed's potential as a community-based model that promotes men's mental health rather than formalized interventions.