The mission of the Chance Foundation is to empower the youth in the underprivileged areas of The Bahamas to become positive contributors to their community and personally fulfilled through a program of targeted education, mentoring and employment aimed at building individual self-reliance.

In order to achieve its objectives the Chance Foundation believes that it will be necessary to create an environment which promotes understanding of differences in the community at large, raises self esteem and personal dignity and that inspires mutual trust, personal responsibility, increased cooperation and positive spiritual development. Turning despair and frustration to hope - turning hope into confidence and self reliance.

It is believed that this can be achieved by inviting the underprivileged to experience groups of people working together in "micro-communities" where everyone operates under a basic set of Core Values which foster:

• constant exposure to people who care and show respect for others
• an environment of honesty and trust on a day to day basis
• communities where neighbors are prepared to give their time and resources without hidden motives or agendas

By establishing these Micro Communities in areas of need we believe that the under-privileged youth will be given the opportunity to experience a different way of living in their community that will make a lasting positive impact on their lives and hence a lasting positive effect on The Bahamas.

Apprenticeship and Employment - Ages 16 - 21
The time honored concept of apprenticeship has unfortunately disappeared. The Hope Centre Associates will be encouraged to enroll in short term apprenticeships in the field of their choice. These apprenticeships will be arranged by The Hope Centre and will be carefully assigned and monitored, providing the Associates with hands on experience in the field of their choice.

Once an Associate has completed the first three phases of the program, employment possibilities will be greatly enhanced and the Hope Centre team will assist in job placement. The Hope Centre will be committed to the Associate throughout the training process and bi-weekly follow-ups will continue after employment is gained.

Objectives of The Hope Centre

• Place and maintain 50 Associates a year in significant employment.
• Purchase and develop a permanent youth development centre.
• Develop a network of Mentors who have a sense of ownership in The Hope Centre.
• To act as a catalyst for change in the community.