Our Story

https://thesubstancegroup.com/Meet the passionate leaders behind Substance Cares. 



Friends turned changemakers, Neil Forester and Xavier Pinto came together with a shared vision: to build meaningful and impactful programs that create opportunities and remove barriers for marginalized Canadians. Guided by compassion and driven by action, they founded Substance Cares in 2017, the not-for-profit heart of its parent company, The Substance Group to transform communities through inclusion, empowerment, and meaningful connection —helping to uplift and empower marginalized voices through thoughtful, purpose-driven action.

Xavier Pinto and Neil Forrester posing together in front of a Substance Cares and Spectrum Works photo backdrop

This vision gave rise to Substance Cares’ two foundational programs

These pioneering programs reflect the core mission of Substance Cares: delivering compassion‑centered, innovative initiatives that empower individuals, raise awareness, and create tangible pathways to inclusion. Today, Substance Cares continues to build on this foundation—developing programs that promote equity, elevate marginalized voices, and help individuals thrive within inclusive and resilient communities.

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InclusiV

— the world’s largest outdoor patio event designed to celebrate and include people of all abilities, creating welcoming social spaces rooted in accessibility, dignity, and community.

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Spectrum works

— the world’s first and largest job fairs dedicated to connecting Autistic job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities, challenging traditional hiring practices through inclusive and strengths‑based approaches.

Substance Cares Since2017 stamp with Canadian Maple Leaf

Substance Cares exists to address real gaps in employment access, accessibility, and community support—particularly for autistic individuals and marginalized populations.

Substance Cares empowers individuals from marginalized communities to access equitable opportunities by delivering innovative, compassion‑centered programs that fosters lasting social and economic inclusion.

A society where compassion drives innovation and every person has equitable access to the opportunities needed for lasting social and economic inclusion.


Founded in 2017 by long‑time friends Xavier Pinto and Neil Forester, Substance Cares began with a shared commitment to creating meaningful change within marginalized communities. Through their volunteer work at local food banks and women’s shelters, Xavier and Neil witnessed firsthand the systemic barriers many individuals face in accessing equitable opportunities. Recognizing the need for more inclusive, innovative solutions, they set out to build programs that go beyond short‑term support and foster lasting social and economic inclusion.

WHAT WE STAND FOR

Our values drive everything

Our work is guided by a clear set of principles that shape how we serve communities, build partnerships, and create lasting impact. These values are not just words — they define how we show up and why we do what we do.

Inclusive

We believe everyone can make a positive impact when provided with an open, inclusive environment where they can thrive and reach their full potential.

01

Authentic

We approach every interaction openly, thoughtfully, and with kindness, but we don’t pull punches. What we say matters. How we say it matters more.

02

Caring

We care about each other and our shared impact on the world around us. It’s core to who we are, and what we do.

03

Memorable

We strive to be the best part of your day; to show up with energy, passion, curiosity, and a desire to leave a lasting, positive impression.

04

Be Part of Our Movement

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