A new initiative, generated towards men in Vernon, has been launched.

Called the Man Cave program, and launched by the Family Resource Centre, the program is an opportunity for men to participate in group activities such as board games, attending a hockey game, snowshoeing, and a cooking class. The program is free of charge and open to anyone identifying as male and over the age of 19. 

The Family Resource Centre acknowledges that connection to people and community is one of the most protective factors for men鈥檚 mental health.

鈥淭his is not a therapy group or a psychoeducational group, the only thing that is therapeutic is the fact that it is healthy to get out and get together,鈥� said counsellor Gabriel Newman. "Studies have shown that men would rather do some kind of activity together rather than do one on one talking so this program was designed to offer access to a wide range of activities available in the region."

Most activities are associated with groups, clubs or businesses as the group allows the opportunity to explore options for connection in the region, as well as build relationships with other men that are not family or work related.

Upcoming events are board games at the Boarding House Caf茅 on Tuesday, Nov. 5, a Vernon Viper鈥檚 game on Friday, Nov. 15, cooking class at the Vernon Friendship Centre on Wednesday, Nov. 27, and snowshoeing (or hiking) with the Vernon Outdoor Club on Saturday, Dec. 7. Future events will run monthly in the new year. 

To find out more or to register for the group, call 250-549-3390 or email Once registered, participants can sign up for as many activities as they like. 

The Family Resource Centre is a charitable non-profit that provides free and affordable counselling, mental health services, support groups, and other programs to residents of the Okanagan.

For more information, visit .