From the Job Site Back to the Mentoring Room
Mark Tenaglia • March 20, 2026
Two of our graduates came into our office and talked with our mentoring cohort, sharing deep, real-world advice about life, choices, and what it means to recognize opportunity when it shows up.
They walked into our office the way they came off the job site. Work boots on. Heavy civil dirt still on their gear. No show. No performance. Just real life.
They didn’t come back with a speech, they came back with the truth. What it felt like before.
What it took to change. How the mentoring and training gave them structure, discipline, and a standard to live by.
Now they’re out there working hard, building Ontario, and doing it as proud members of LiUNA Local 183.
This is what it means to earn a new chapter.
Proud of you, brothers. Thank you for coming back to pull the next group forward.
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Under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford’s government, Ontario is building a workforce that is strong, skilled, and reflective of our province’s diversity. A workforce where youth from marginalized communities can access real careers, earn real wages, and contribute to a prosperous Ontario.
At The ORA, we believe knowledge and training are the first steps toward independence and empowerment. When you learn a skill, you’re not just gaining a job. You’re discovering options.
Today, our clients had the incredible opportunity to hear from Mr. Jack Oliveira, Business Manager of LiUNA Local 183, a leader who has lived the journey, earned the respect, and built a legacy through hard work and loyalty.
His message was simple, strong, and unforgettable: “You can sleep when you’re dead.”
Training isn’t about getting everything right the first time. It’s about showing up, trying, failing, learning, and coming back stronger the next day.
In the skilled trades, success starts long before the first tool hits the ground. It begins with showing up, early, prepared, and ready to work. Being on time isn’t just about the clock; it’s about respect, for yourself, your crew, and the craft you’re building.
In the skilled trades, every day brings something real. You can see the results of your effort — a wall built, a room finished, a foundation laid strong and steady. That’s pride. That’s purpose.
The Oaks Revitalization Association (ORA) had the pleasure of participating and showcasing the life-changing work we do, helping individuals from marginalized communities build solid careers, stability, and pride through the skilled trades.
Daniel is a 30-year-old resident of the Jane and Finch area, a neighbourhood where opportunities often feel out of reach and stability can be difficult to secure.
The Oaks Revitalization Association is proud to stand firmly in support of the Skills Development Fund (SDF), a program that has quietly transformed thousands of lives across Ontario.
At the Oaks Revitalization Association (ORA), we believe in second chances, hard work, and the power of transformation.
Today, we witnessed something truly inspiring, four of our clients who showed unwavering commitment, discipline, and heart have officially become proud members of LiUNA Local 183.
