STDP

The quickest path to the middle class

Community partnership for a brighter future

The Oaks Revitalization Association (ORA) provides the community with services and programs to create a sense of belonging. The ORA focuses on enhancing the quality of life for members of the community by providing various services and programs that can help foster a strong sense of community, a feeling of belonging, and an overall sense of well-being and vitality.


The ORA is committed to improving the well-being of our community by providing a range of services and programs that help foster a stronger community, based on a foundation of trust, integrity, respect, accountability and open communication.


With a focus on nurturing the positive qualities of our communities, the ORA implements revitalization initiatives and social programs for all ages. The result is vibrant environments and promising opportunities for our country’s future leaders.

From The Periphery To Prosperity:

How Youth Succeed In The ORA-STDP Program

Brochure: Cover features worker, text

The Oaks Revitalization Skilled Trades Development Program (ORA-STDP) team is proud to invite you to celebrate two years of phenomenal success. Together, we have built a community-centred response to increasing employment in the Skilled Trades within some of Toronto’s most marginalized communities.

ORA-STDP is thrilled to announce our collaboration with the Canadian Forces Recruiting Group.

A coat of arms with a crown anchor and swords

The strength of our program

Revolutionary coaching and immersive mentorship program, harnessing time-tested strategies from the realms of entrepreneurship and the lessons passed down through generations of wealthy families. Our approach draws inspiration from ancient wisdom, which serves as the cornerstone of our program, guiding participants on a transformative journey toward securing their place within the Canadian middle class through opportunities in the skilled trades.

"Community empowerment is not just about making a difference in our community, it's about creating a better world for all of us."

Mark Tenaglia

Executive Director

Reviving Community Spirit: ORA's Impactful Stories

Man in hoodie smiles, gestures while speaking in a room with a clear glass wall and person facing away.

Changing Lives from the Inside Out

October 13, 2025
We don’t simply prepare young men for the skilled trades, we prepare them for life. Every session is designed to challenge the way participants think, act, and see themselves. Through guided reflection, honest conversations, and real-world lessons, we help them dismantle negative thought patterns, rebuild self-belief,
Group of ten people stand in front of a building with a blue wall. Signs with writing are above the group.

Big day for our cohort!

October 10, 2025
Our clients took a powerful step forward in their journey, walking through the doors of LiUNA Local 183 Training Centre and meeting the training director and instructors for the very first time.
Hand wearing a glove smoothing mortar between a brick wall joint.

Building Futures, One Brick at a Time

October 6, 2025
At OPCMIA LOCAL 598 Training Centre, our clients are mastering the craft of masonry—a trade that demands focus, skill, and perseverance. With the foundation built in ORA’s Boot Camp and mentoring program, they’re now gaining the hands-on training that will lead them into strong, stable careers. 👏 Thank you to OPCMIA
Man taking an oath, raising hand in front of a Canadian flag, indoors.

Success Story: Justin’s Journey from Uncertainty to a Proud Career in the Canadian Armed Forces

August 14, 2025
When Justin first arrived in Canada, he carried with him the same hopes and dreams shared by so many newcomers — to build a better life, contribute to his new community, and create a future he could be proud of.
A group of construction workers are working on a construction site.

Built for results. Proven through ROI.

July 24, 2025
ORA is reshaping what workforce development looks like in Ontario. Through its flagship Skilled Trades Development Program (STDP).
Two men are giving each other a high five in a warehouse.

Stronger Together

June 9, 2025
June is Men’s Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on a silent crisis affecting millions of men across Canada. While strength, resilience, and stoicism have long been associated with masculinity, these same traits—when misunderstood—can lead to devastating outcomes when men feel they must suffer in silence.
The sun is shining through the windows of a building under construction.

The Builders Will Rise: A Message of Hope for Tradespeople Across the Nation

June 9, 2025
There is a quiet strength in those who build. The ones who rise before the sun, pull on their boots, and step out into the world to move earth, pour concrete, raise walls, wire homes, and lay the foundation of entire communities. These are our tradespeople — the unsung heroes who turn blueprints into skylines, who build what the rest of the world takes for granted.
A large canadian flag is waving in the wind over a city

The Challenge of Trump’s Tariffs: A Call for Canadian Resilience

March 14, 2025
The possibility of Donald Trump imposing tariffs on Canada, while understandably shocking to the Canadian psyche and incredibly damaging to our economy, must be met with a level-headed and resolute response. As difficult as this scenario may be, Canadians must acknowledge that America, like any sovereign nation, has the right to impose tariffs as it sees fit. One of the fundamental tenets of our teachings at ORA-STDP is that the world is not fair, and one should never expect it to be so. Expecting fairness is a fool’s errand; instead, we must focus on how we adapt, innovate, and overcome adversity.
SHOW MORE

ORA’s Leadership Drives Change Through Strategic Partnerships

The Oaks Revitalization Association (ORA) is proud to collaborate with some of the most respected industry leaders who share our vision for empowering marginalized communities. Their unwavering support and expertise have been instrumental in advancing our programs, from skilled trades training to workforce development initiatives. These partnerships not only enhance the resources we offer but also create meaningful pathways for individuals to build sustainable careers. Together, we are making a lasting impact by fostering leadership, promoting inclusivity, and providing opportunities that transform lives.

LiUNA Local 138 Training Centre
LiUNA 506
Canadian Armed Forces
A logo for IHSA
EmployNext
OPCMIA LOCAL 598
Ontario Masonry Training Centre (OMTC)

Join Us in Transforming Lives

Every contribution ignites hope and opportunity.

Making a difference in our community.

By providing services and programs that cater to the needs and interests of the community, the mission of the ORA is to create a sense of togetherness and mutual support among its members.

Photo of group of hands