On a recent episode of our Finding Your Inspiration podcast, Pro Football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson reflected on how his upbringing shaped his commitment to supporting young people. In the conversation, he speaks about the importance of helping children recognize their abilities and imagining what is possible for their futures.
“The youth are our future – someone instilled that into me a long time ago,” Eric said. “There are kids that have talents that they don’t see sometimes. If you believe, if you put the work in; it can be done.”
That belief is brought to life at the Eric Dickerson Learning Center, an enrichment hub designed to expand how young people see themselves and their potential. The center complements Hope through Housing’s free after-school program by building on the academic foundation students receive through homework help and basic literacy support and extending it into leadership development, STEM exploration and deep engagement with literature.
At the Learning Center, students participate in hands-on science and technology projects, collaborative problem-solving challenges, reading and discussion groups and leadership-focused programming that builds communication, confidence and critical thinking. These experiences are designed to spark curiosity, encourage self-discovery and help young people begin imagining themselves as future engineers, entrepreneurs, educators, artists and community leaders.
The center was created through a partnership between Eric, longtime friend Jeff Burum, founder of National CORE and Hope Through Housing. Together, they established a dedicated space within affordable housing communities where students can explore interests, develop leadership skills and engage with mentors who encourage big-picture thinking.
“I always had that vision, so when we teamed up, it was great,” Eric said. “You can’t save every kid but that one you do save could make a difference.”
Today, the Eric Dickerson Learning Center serves as a catalyst for growth and possibility. Hope through Housing’s after-school program strengthens academic skills and literacy; the Learning Center invites students to dive into literature, wrestle with ideas, pursue innovation and develop the habits of tomorrow’s leaders.
“The Eric Dickerson Learning Center represents what’s possible when community comes together with purpose,” said Alyssa Cotter, executive director of Hope through Housing. “Together, we’re giving children access to opportunity and stability through tools that can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.”