About Us

One Small Chance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that bridges opportunity gaps for disadvantaged youth. Founded by Chance Archer, a Patrick Henry High School student leader, the organization was born out of lived experience and a vision for a more equitable future.

Growing up with financial hardship, Chance understood the impact of starting school without supplies, missing out on sports due to costs, or falling behind academically without support. These experiences led to creating One Small Chance, an initiative built to ensure that no student is held back simply because of circumstances beyond their control.

We focus on actionable support: distributing school supplies, funding athletic participation, offering scholarships, and providing mentorship. Each initiative is designed to give students the resources, confidence, and community they need to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

What began as one student's mission has grown into a community-powered movement, impacting over 500 individuals in 2024 alone and raising over $10,000 in funds and resources.

At One Small Chance, we believe meaningful change begins with consistent, compassionate efforts. That’s why we bring together individuals, families, schools, and local organizations to form a united front: supporting youth, one small chance at a time.

About the Founder

Chance Archer is the founder and driving force behind One Small Chance. A senior at Patrick Henry High School and future University of Virginia student on a full-ride as a Posse Scholar, Chance was inspired by his personal experiences with adversity to uplift others.

He has been:

  • Class President

  • Founder of The Hanover Monthly, serving 20,000+ residents

  • A Boys State Moot Court delegate

  • Participant in the Oliver Hill/Samuel Tucker Pre-Law Program.

  • A YMCA swim instructor, Camp Tomato volunteer, and Spanish tutor

Chance leads with empathy, advocacy, and action, believing that the best way to create long-term change is by starting with the small things.

Athletic Scholarships

At One Small Chance, we believe sports can help with personal growth, discipline, and community building. However, many disadvantaged youth face high costs for equipment, travel, and registration fees, which can limit their opportunities. That's why we provide Athletic Scholarships to help remove these financial barriers and give athletes a chance to follow their passion for sports. We support funding for league registration, essential gear, and travel expenses. Our goal is to help these young athletes succeed in sports and develop life skills like teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. By investing in underserved youth, we empower future leaders and promote a more inclusive community for all.

“Taking care of the little things, while the big things take care of themselves.”

- One Small Chance

Supporting Education

At One Small Chance, we believe every student deserves access to the tools they need to succeed academically. Through our school supply drive, we've provided over 50 students across the Hanover area with essential supplies, ensuring that financial barriers don't hinder their educational journey.

From backpacks and notebooks to pens and calculators, our drive has equipped students with the resources necessary to engage in their studies without distraction. By alleviating the burden of purchasing these essential items, we allow students to focus on what matters most—learning and academic achievement.

As we say at One Small Chance, “Taking care of the little things, while the big things take care of themselves.” By addressing the small, yet impactful needs, we create the space for students to focus on their future success. We are committed to empowering underserved youth, helping them unlock their full potential and build a brighter future through education.

Recognitions & Media

One Small Chance has been recognized both locally and regionally for its impact:

Giving Children a Chance.