Former Eagles player Zach Ertz may now be with the Washington Commanders, but his dedication to supporting communities in need continues to resonate in Philadelphia.
The House of Hope
The Ertz Family Foundation celebrated a major achievement with the groundbreaking of the House of Hope in North Philadelphia, a project designed to uplift and transform the lives of disadvantaged youth.
Progress continues as the House of Hope moves closer to becoming a multifunctional community hub.
Originally operated by Grace and Peace Community Fellowship, the building is being reimagined into a safe space that will offer enrichment programs, social services, and other vital resources to those in need.
This project is a testament to Zach and his wife Julie’s dedication to the Philadelphia community, where Zach’s football career flourished.
A Family’s Commitment to Transforming Lives
The concept for the House of Hope took shape during the turbulent times of 2020.
In the face of rising food insecurity and limited access to educational resources, Zach and Julie Ertz recognized the growing need for safe spaces for young people in North Philadelphia.
Together with their foundation, they decided to embark on a mission to create a home that provides not just shelter, but opportunities for growth, learning, and community building.
Zach’s mother, Lisa Ertz, has been deeply involved in the project.
She spoke with CBS3 last week, sharing her continued role as an ambassador for the Ertz Family Foundation.
“Kids need help at night, they need a safe place to go, they need food, all those things,” Lisa Ertz explained.
She shared how Zach and Julie brainstormed the idea to raise funds to support Pastor Rob and the Grace and Peace Community Fellowship in creating this transformative space.
Though Lisa currently lives in Philadelphia and has no plans to leave, she is fully committed to seeing this project through, ensuring that her son’s legacy of giving back to the community continues.
Creating a Safe Haven for Philadelphia’s Youth
The House of Hope is more than just a building; it’s a beacon of transformation.
Once a modest church, it is being renovated to serve a far greater purpose.
This reimagined space will act as a sanctuary for young people, offering internet access after school, providing workshops aimed at career development, and housing programs that empower and mentor youth.
From educational support to personal development activities, the house will be alive with opportunities for young people to grow, learn, and thrive.
A Hub for Learning and Empowerment
Inside the House of Hope, every room is being carefully designed to meet the community’s needs.
Students will have access to digital resources in a dedicated space, ensuring they can complete their homework and pursue online learning opportunities.
Additionally, the house will host programs tailored to provide career guidance, mentorship, and empowerment workshops.
The goal is not just to support academic success but to inspire personal and professional growth, creating a lasting impact on the lives of those who walk through its doors.
Building on a Foundation of Community Support
The transformation of this North Philadelphia site into the House of Hope is a labor of love from the Ertz Family Foundation.
By breathing new life into this structure, they are ensuring that it will serve as a cornerstone for generations to come.
The foundation’s goal is to create a permanent space where young people can access critical resources, form meaningful connections, and develop the skills they need to succeed in life.
This house will not only offer educational and career growth opportunities but also act as a place of refuge, healing, and community engagement.
A Lasting Legacy of Hope and Empowerment
Zach and Julie Ertz’s vision for the House of Hope goes beyond bricks and mortar—it represents their commitment to making a real difference in the lives of young people.
By providing a safe, welcoming environment for youth in North Philadelphia, they are creating a legacy of hope, empowerment, and resilience.
The House of Hope will serve as a lasting testament to the power of community-driven missions, where young people can gather, grow, and build brighter futures.
As construction continues and the House of Hope moves closer to completion, the Ertz Family Foundation’s dedication to transforming lives in Philadelphia remains stronger than ever.
This initiative, led by Zach, Julie, and their family, ensures that the community has a safe place to turn for support, education, and inspiration—long after Zach’s football days have ended.
