As part of the nationwide recognition of Men’s Health Month, the 3rd Annual ManCave Men’s Health Month Networking Event was held on June 25 at Ford’s Garage in Plantation, Florida. This year’s theme, “Closing the Lifespan Gender Gap & Addressing the Empathy Gap,” placed a spotlight on the emotional dimensions of men’s health, particularly mental well-being, empathy, and social support.
Hosted by Women Empowering Women in Development (WEW), the event was intentionally designed as a men-only gathering to foster open and honest conversations in a relaxed environment. With its vintage automotive decor and casual dining setting, Ford’s Garage provided an atmosphere that helped attendees feel comfortable discussing personal topics often left unspoken.
“Creating spaces where men can openly discuss their health and emotions is crucial,” said a WEW representative. “By addressing the empathy gap, we hope to improve overall health outcomes for men and encourage a culture where it’s okay to ask for help.”
The event included a mix of structured and informal activities. Participants engaged in peer-led workshops focusing on empathy, communication, and emotional intelligence—qualities often under-discussed in traditional male settings. The absence of formal speakers was intentional, giving way to authentic, participant-driven dialogue. Conversations ranged from managing work-life balance and emotional stress to seeking mental health care and supporting friends through tough times.
Team-building exercises, including guided prompts and wellness challenges, encouraged attendees to share personal experiences and develop trust among their peers. Participants also received take-home materials with tools for continuing their mental wellness journey, such as mindfulness techniques, local counseling resources, and contact information for health service providers.
One attendee noted the importance of the initiative, saying, “It’s rare to find a space where men can talk about things like stress and vulnerability without feeling judged. This event helped me see I’m not alone in facing these issues.”
The ManCave series began as part of a grassroots movement to address glaring health disparities between men and women. According to the CDC, men in the United States continue to have a shorter average lifespan than women and are less likely to seek preventative care. Emotional suppression and societal expectations around masculinity often contribute to this health gap, as many men feel pressured to appear strong and self-reliant—even when struggling internally.
This year’s theme also touched on the concept of the “empathy gap”—a term used to describe both the internal emotional disconnection some men experience and the external societal tendency to minimize men’s emotional needs. Organizers stressed that bridging this gap is essential not only for men’s mental health but also for cultivating stronger, healthier relationships across all facets of life.
The event drew attendees from diverse industries, including education, law enforcement, small business, and healthcare. Their shared experiences underscored the universality of mental health challenges among men, regardless of background. Participants left with not only practical strategies for improving emotional well-being but also a renewed sense of community and purpose.
As part of a broader trend in men’s health advocacy, events like ManCave reflect a growing effort to challenge outdated norms and prioritize holistic wellness. While June serves as a dedicated time to spotlight men’s health, organizers emphasized that the conversation must continue year-round. The success of the ManCave event signals a growing demand for safe, supportive environments where men can express themselves freely and seek guidance without stigma.