Hope through Housing is thrilled to announce that have secured a $1,031,000 federal community project grant to expand advanced technology and artificial intelligence training for Inland Empire residents — opening new pathways to family-sustaining careers through our free workforce development programs.
On Feb. 5, U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar presented the grant to Chairman Jeff Burum and Executive Director Alyssa Cotter during a ceremony at our Rancho Cucamonga headquarters.
“As the Inland Empire grows, so should the opportunities for its residents,” Aguilar said. “That’s why I’m proud to deliver over $1 million in community project funding for the Hope through Housing Foundation’s Artificial Intelligence Innovation Lab.
“This lab will enable people in our region to build successful lives and contribute to our economy by giving them the chance to get jobs and apprenticeships in emerging and evolving technological fields like AI. I’ll keep fighting to deliver resources and ensure that the Inland Empire can become an innovation hub in all different areas, from manufacturing to transportation and beyond.”
Expanding Opportunity
Our Pathways to Economic Empowerment program focuses on economic mobility and long-term stability. It spans job preparation, financial counseling and our CORE Academy workforce development program, which provides hands-on training for entry-level roles in property management, property maintenance, social media marketing and digital media production careers.
“We are deeply indebted to Congressman Pete Aguilar for his leadership and passionate advocacy for the Inland Empire,” Burum said. “This investment reflects his commitment to expanding opportunity for families across our region. For more than 30 years, National CORE and Hope through Housing have worked together to connect housing with education and workforce development. This grant allows us to strengthen that work.”
The new funding will support the expansion of our Artificial Intelligence Innovation Lab, providing hands-on workforce training in AI tools, digital production and emerging technology platforms.
“At Hope through Housing, we help our residents build a pathway to a stronger, more financially stable future,” Cotter said. “This grant will supercharge that effort, offering expanded options for instruction in high-tech tools for a vast number of growing industries.”
Building on the Success of CORE Academy
The Innovation Lab builds on Hope through Housing’s 2025 expansion of CORE Academy, which now includes programs in San Diego and Orange County. A hospital program launches this spring.
For graduates like Cristian Contreras, the impact is already clear.
“The training I received changed my life,” Contreras said. “I learned professional video editing and production skills — tools I can use in a number of potential careers. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity.”
Contreras now works as a video editor with National CORE.
Preparing Residents for a Rapidly Changing Economy
The Innovation Lab will roll out in phases beginning later this year. Planned elements include virtual-reality training tools, expanded media production and broadcast instruction and practical applications of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
Program designers are taking a flexible approach, allowing the curriculum to evolve alongside emerging technologies and workforce needs.
Research from McKinsey & Company shows that nine out of 10 organizations now use AI, with more than 60 percent reporting increased innovation and 80 percent seeking improved efficiency.
A Catalyst for the Inland Empire’s Future
Heather Parsons, Hope through Housing’s vice president of philanthropy, said the timing of the investment is critical.
“The rapid changes shaping our economy require a training program that is resilient and responsive,” Parsons said. “Our Innovation Lab can serve as a catalyst for a new model of workforce training. This is a big moment for Hope through Housing and the Inland Empire.”