DUDES Club is helping indigenous men who live in low socioeconomic areas of Canada to open up about their health.

DUDES Club is helping indigenous men who live in low socioeconomic areas of Canada to open up about their health.

It’s a good example of our commitment to invest in projects that directly address the specific needs of underserviced and often neglected populations of men. This approach is also evident through a number of the programs we fund in Australia and the U.S, through similar initiatives.
 
In line with our strategic goals, we want to mobilize men to be more informed, active and connected when it comes to their health. DUDES Club is a great example of how we can encourage a whole community to be proactive and provide an open environment for this to be fostered.
 
What does it stand for?
DUDES: Downtown Urban Knights Defending Equality and Solidarity
 
What do DUDES do?

• Empower men and create solidarity in the community.
• Get involved in events and activities that focus on the spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of wellness.
• There’s also access to health care professionals and other support services as well as Elders, guest speakers, physicians, psychologists and street nurses. 
• Organise hot meals and even haircuts, stuff that gets blokes together.

 
How often do the DUDES catch up?
Every other Thursday from 4 - 6pm
 
When did it begin?
Back in August 2010 initially among men of the Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and has since grown to reach all men in the community, and created a lot of buzz along the way.

Who’s looking after DUDES?
Meet the DUDES Club team. DUDES is one of 5 projects funded by the Movember Foundation as part of the Men's Depression & Suicide Network implemented by the University of British Columbia.

What’s happening now?
Check out the documentary.