More Than Furniture – A Mission to Empower and Uplift

Two men working with wood in a woodworking shop, one using a hammer and chisel, and the other working on a piece of wood.

Our Story & Mission

At Second Chance Styles, we breathe new life into gently used furniture, crafting unique, stylish pieces while empowering individuals facing employment barriers in Ottawa. Our mission is to promote sustainability and inclusivity through the art of upcycling.

We are committed to:

Sustainable Living: Reducing landfill waste by refurbishing and repurposing donated furniture.

Empowerment: Providing meaningful employment and skill development opportunities for individuals with disabilities or other employment challenges.

Community Engagement: Fostering a supportive community that values sustainability, inclusivity, and creativity.

Our Impact

  • 500+ pieces of furniture upcycled

  • 25,000 lbs of waste diverted from landfill

  • 40+ individuals employed or trained

  • 10+ community partnerships

Meet the Team

  • A woman sitting and painting a wooden chair with a paintbrush in a warmly lit room.

    Jenna M.

    “Upcycling is my way of giving both furniture and people a second chance.”

    Lead Artisan

  • A man with a beard and plaid shirt repairing a chair, using a hammer, with the seat and upholstery removed, revealing the internal springs.

    Carlos A.

    “There’s nothing more satisfying than turning discarded wood into someone’s new favorite piece.”

    Workshop Manager

  • A man and woman pushing a vintage sofa apart in a room with moving boxes around.

    Priya R.

    “Every donation is the start of a transformation story.”

    Operations & Donations Coordinator

  • Man working with wood in a bright workshop, using a saw on a wooden board.

    Ahmed T.

    “This is more than a job, it’s a new beginning.”

    Apprentice – Skills Training Program

  • Group of volunteers high-fiving in a volunteer event, wearing white t-shirts with "Volunteer" printed on them, surrounded by donation boxes and supplies.

    Sarah K.

    “I love bringing people together through creativity and purpose.”

    Community Outreach & Events

  • Woman assembling a wooden chair on a round table in a home workspace.

    Emily D.

    “Our mission is rooted in care for people, the planet, and possibility.”

    Co-Founder