What We Do
OACC cultivates participatory planning, and placemaking initiatives that advance equity and people-centred approaches to shaping and using of shared urban spaces.
Based in Toronto, OACC brings grassroots groups, mission-driven organizations, and planning and design practitioners to explore how shared spaces can reflect the aspirations and lived experiences of the people who use them, and how these places can be collectively stewarded over time.
Our Approach
At OACC, we work alongside communities and organizations to explore possibilities for equitable and resilient neighbourhoods.
Through collaborative processes, we support early-stage ideas and grassroots initiatives as they evolve into viable projects through strategic guidance, partnership development, resource identification and the practice of placekeeping.
By building on communities’ strengths and lived experiences, we help create conditions where shared spaces are collectively shaped, cared for, and stewarded over time.
Our Vision
A future where collaborative leadership drives the creation of resilient and equitable built environments for the sustainable well-being of every person.
Our Mission
We build capacity for and incubate changemaking ideas which promote resilient, equitable and sustainable communities through an inclusive community-engaged process.
Our Services
Strategic Advisory
Guidance for community-based groups navigating complex spatial challenges and activation of shared spaces.
Participatory Planning
Designing and facilitating collaborative processes that bring communities, partners, and stakeholders together to explore possibilities for equitable and inclusive shared spaces.
Project Development
Helping initiatives move from concept to implementation, including partnership coordination, funding identification, and project oversight.
Training & Learning Programs
Designing and leading workshops, learning labs, and educational experiences that build knowledge and skills in participatory planning, placemaking, and community-led stewardship.
Resource Navigation
Connecting grassroots groups and mission-driven organizations to relevant supports, funding opportunities, and institutional resources.
Our Values
Equity
We recognize that inequities are often embedded within the spaces of our cities. Our work begins with acknowledging these realities and supporting processes that challenge structural barriers to access, participation, and belonging.
Excellence
We are committed to thoughtful, high-quality work that reflects care, rigor, and integrity in every collaboration.
Inclusion
We approach each project with humility and curiosity. Listening to diverse voices and lived experiences allows richer perspectives to emerge and creates pathways toward shared value.
Co-Powerment
We recognize that privilege can unintentionally reproduce inequalities. Rather than “empowering” others, we work through processes of co-powerment, where trust, shared learning, and mutual accountability guide our collaborations.
People-Centered
People are experts in their own experiences. We prioritize the voices of those most affected by spatial decisions and honour the everyday knowledge communities bring to conversations about place.
Innovation
We challenge conventional thinking and explore new ways of imagining and shaping the spaces where community life unfolds.
Connect with us to learn more!
Complete the form below to send us a message, or email us directly: toronto@openarchcanada.org. We will respond back shortly.
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