Terry McLaurin has left his mark on Washington Commanders history in his six-year NFL career. The two-time Pro Bowler has logged five consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, and posted a career-high 13 touchdowns in 2024.
McLaurin has arguably been more impactful in Washington off the field than he has on it, and his work in the DMV continues to expand. On Thursday, McLaurin launched a brand-new charitable initiative focused on getting homeless and at-risk youth and young adults into the workforce and out of homelessness.
“No matter you've been through, that's not the end of your story,” McLaurin said at the program’s launch ceremony. “And a lot of times that's just the beginning and it's a testimony and opportunity for you to take forward what you've learned through what you've been through, but also it'll prepare you to propel you to what's next in your life."
The kids and young adults in the community that he works with don't see a larger-than-life NFL superstar, they just see Terry.
“He catches footballs on Sundays, but off the field, when you speak to him, it’s like wow," said Josue Arias, a Mobile Hope program participant. "He’s a good, heartful person.”
“He gave me a chance to pick out clothing. To look good and professional for work and everything," said Arias. "I use that every day.”
Arias didn't know who McLaurin was when he first met him last year. Arias had a history of trouble with the law and was looking to turn his life around with Mobile Hope when he and McLaurin met.
“He’s a testament to our vision for this program in helping these young people step into the real world," said McLaurin.
“(The Mobile Hope family) accepted me without judgment after being incarcerated. And I built a foundation here. I feel like home every single time I come here,” he shared. “I lost both of my parents, and coming here every day, volunteering makes me feel like home…and it's been a blessing. It's been a very good blessing. My goals now are just to remain sober, develop a skill, and be able to pay bills, have a stabilized home, and give back to the community like Mobile Hope does.”
“There are so many communities that need assistance, and it's hard to obviously reach them all, but being in the DMV, I just don't see Virginia, I just don't see Maryland, I just don't see DC, I see them all as one body. They all support me as a player and a person. …And I think it's important to reach as (many) as we can in the DMV community.”
"I just wanted to be able to provide a space where kids can come and get haircuts and get the proper clothing so they can be ready and feeling confident about job interviews and job opportunities," said McLaurin. "Not only that, but having mentors and life skill workshops that allow them to unearth what’s already been placed inside them the day they were born.”