​​BRAMPTON, ON – In Brampton, The CHANCE Centre is creating meaningful opportunities for neurodivergent and underserved youth and young adults through skills training, paid work experiences and community connection.

​Participants at The CHANCE Centre work together to prepare and package merchandise as part of the organization’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ Toronto Host City licensed product line. Credit: The CHANCE Centre

Founded to support individuals who are often overlooked or face barriers to employment and inclusion, the organization works with participants with intellectual disabilities, autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and other challenges by helping them build confidence, independence and practical workplace skills.​

The organization’s name reflects its mission: Creating Hope and New Connections Everyday.

Filling a gap in support

The CHANCE Centre, a registered charity located in downtown Brampton, was created after founder Marlene Spence recognized a growing gap in support for many young people once they leave the school system.

While many students receive structured supports throughout their education, families are often left navigating limited opportunities for employment, training and social connection afterward. The organization was founded to help bridge that gap through practical programming and meaningful opportunities that focus on participants’ strengths and abilities.

Over the past year, The CHANCE Centre has completed more than 1,000 training hours and provided paid employment opportunities to 15 participants.

Beyond the numbers, participants are developing communication, teamwork and customer service skills while gaining greater confidence and independence both at home and in the community.​

From community impact to global opportunity

The CHANCE Centre has become part of Brampton’s growing soccer culture and the excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026™ through its FIFA World Cup 2026™ Toronto Host City licensed merchandise line. As the only non-profit organization in Ontario with FIFA licensing rights, and one of just two organizations in Brampton authorized to produce official FIFA merchandise, The CHANCE Centre is creating unique opportunities for neurodivergent and marginalized youth to contribute to a global event.

Recently announced at Brampton City Council, the product line features apparel and fan merchandise made in Brampton through SBS Collective Co., a social enterprise of The CHANCE Centre, creating meaningful paid work and skills development opportunities for participants.​

The initiative also reflects the power of local collaboration, with Brampton-based businesses including Forge & Fabric and Print1 supporting production and helping bring the merchandise to life

​Representatives and participants from The CHANCE Centre joined Mayor Patrick Brown and Members of Brampton City Council to celebrate the launch of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Toronto licensed product line. Credit: City of Brampton

As Brampton builds momentum around the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and the City’s Where the Game Grows campaign, the public is encouraged to shop The CHANCE Centre’s collection of officially licensed FIFA World Cup 2026™ merchandise. The collection includes T-shirts, tote bags, tumblers and mugs and is available at Brampton’s Farmers’ Market until July 18, 2026 and online.

For the organization, the initiative represents more than merchandise production. It reflects the importance of creating opportunities for people to contribute, work and be recognized for their strengths while participating in a community moment shared across Brampton.

Learn more by visiting thechancecentre.ca​.

Quotes​

“The CHANCE Centre is helping build a stronger, more inclusive Brampton by creating meaningful opportunities for neurodivergent and underserved youth and young adults. Through skills training, paid employment and community connection, they are empowering individuals to build confidence, independence and a sense of belonging. Their work reflects the kind of innovation and leadership that makes Brampton such a vibrant and welcoming city.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton​

 “The CHANCE Centre is creating opportunities that make a real difference in people’s lives. By supporting neurodivergent and underserved youth and young adults with meaningful skills training and employment, they are helping build a more inclusive Brampton where everyone has the chance to contribute, belong and succeed. This is the kind of community impact we are proud to support.” - Rod Power, City Councillor, Wards 7 and 8; Council Representative, Brampton Accessibility Advisory Committee, City of Brampton​

 “At The CHANCE Centre, we believe everyone deserves the chance to be seen for their strengths, not limited by their challenges. This work is about more than building job skills, it is about building confidence, dignity, belonging, and real pathways for people to contribute to their community.” - Marlene Spence, Founder, The CHANCE Centre​