Oak Centre: Alternative Community Support
Oak Centre: Alternative Community Support is a registered Canadian nonprofit organization (Business Number: 135391969RR0001) providing mental health support services in Ontario’s Niagara Region. Established as a community mental health program, it operates as a clubhouse model facility designed to empower individuals with mental health challenges through peer-driven rehabilitation and social integration[1][2].

Mission and Services

The organization’s mission focuses on fostering a restorative environment where members develop self-confidence, leadership skills, and civic engagement. Key services include employment assistance, educational support, housing navigation, social and recreational programming, crisis intervention, and guidance for accessing government benefits such as ODSP, OW, and CPP[2].

Clubhouse Model and Structure

Oak Centre adheres to the international clubhouse philosophy, emphasizing peer collaboration, skill-building through participation, and the inherent productivity of individuals. Activities are structured around two primary units:

• Garden Café Unit: Focused on culinary and hospitality training.
• Clerical Unit: Centered on administrative and organizational skill development[2].

Community Engagement and Philosophy

The center prioritizes community integration, connecting members to local events, volunteer opportunities, and transitional employment programs. Its principles include the belief that "learning comes by doing" and collective effort fosters personal and communal fulfillment[2].

Funding and Recognition

Funded by Ontario Health, the organization is a registered charity compliant with Canada Revenue Agency requirements. It collaborates with broader mental health networks and emphasizes member-driven advocacy to address systemic challenges such as long-term poverty and social discrimination[2][3].

Note: Contact details and specific location information are omitted per guidelines.

[1] http://www.oakcentre.ca [2] http://www.oakcentre.ca/about.html [3] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/oak-centre-alternative-community-support/ [4] https://causes.benevity.org/causes/124-135391969RR0001?lang=en [5] https://sjghel.ca/care-services/the-oaks-centre/