Sep 17th, 2025

Meet Roland – Making a Difference, One Home at a Time 

“Fixing up homes is all about helping people live better. There’s nothing better than seeing a tenant’s face light up when everything’s finally working again and they can just relax and enjoy their home.” 

That’s how Ronald, one of OCH’s newest maintenance workers, describes why he loves what he does. 

Ronald first joined OCH through a partnership with the YMCA Pre-Apprenticeship Home Renovation Training Program, which gives hands-on training in carpentry and drywall, and home repair. 

He started as a placement student in September 2024 and has now earned a full-time position as a Permanent Maintenance Worker. “Every day comes with its own surprises,” Ronald says. “But I’ve got a lot of support from my supervisors and co-workers, which makes it so much better.” 

Ronald moved to Canada in June 2023 as a refugee from Uganda. He recently got his high school diploma and is working on sorting out his immigration paperwork. 

 Jamie, his manager, says: 

“You’ll usually spot Ronald with a big smile, always ready to jump in and help out tenants.” 

Do you know an OCH employee making a difference? Email us at editor@och.ca.