Richard Nasedkin – Grande Prairie

My name is Richard Nasedkin, and at 57, I've journeyed through four careers, each chapter shaped by my pursuit of purpose and understanding. Born and raised in Fairview, I began as a photographer with a small studio in the '80s. Marriage brought me to Grande Prairie, where I worked at the college in audiovisual before earning a teaching degree. I taught high school for 13 years, and it was during this period that I first confronted my mental health issues.

In 2006, I was diagnosed with Chronic Depressive Disorder, which explained my career changes. I had been blaming my condition on the jobs rather than working on the condition itself. During this hiatus, I volunteered with the Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention, speaking to men in trades and industry about mental health symptoms and encouraging them to get help for themselves or their co-workers. It became clear to me how scarce long-term support was for men. Crisis counseling existed, but ongoing support was costly and limited. Even with my benefits, I quickly maxed out my plan.

Later, I facilitated a men's support group while working on a master's in counseling, which I eventually abandoned due to difficulties with academic writing. However, my passion for helping men remained. Research led me to the concept of Men's Sheds in 2008. Men's Sheds are community spaces where men can gather, work on projects, and talk openly about their lives. Despite initial challenges, I persisted.

I had one meeting in 2019, but I officially started the Men's Shed in February 2021 by providing a space, tools, and materials. Attendance fluctuated, but I continued, partnering with the Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention. They eventually provided a larger, rent-subsidized space, and the Shed began to thrive. Today, the Men's Shed is a vibrant community where men meet three times a week to connect, share stories, and support each other. We've even started a book club and a model-building group, expanding our activities to meet diverse interests.

The impact of the Men's Shed on its members is profound. It offers a safe, non-judgmental environment where men can discuss their mental health, find support, and form meaningful friendships. One member, David, shared how the Shed changed his life, giving him a place to belong and something to look forward to daily. Another member, Len, whose wife credited the Shed with saving their marriage, found a new passion for woodworking and transformed his daily routine.

The Men's Shed has given me purpose and a sense of contribution. It has also profoundly impacted others, offering a sanctuary where men can find solace and companionship. For many, the Shed is more than just a place to work on projects; it's a lifeline, providing structure, connection, and a sense of community.

For anyone struggling with mental health or loneliness, I urge you to find a community like the Men's Shed. It's a place where connection and understanding flourish, where you can form meaningful friendships, support others, and even be supported. The Men's Shed is a testament to the power of community and the profound difference it can make in the lives of men and their families.