CJ Anderson

Broncos’ C.J. Anderson planning sports and academic complex for youth in hometown

Broncos running back C.J. Anderson has grand plans — and not just on the field.

Anderson’s “Dreams Never Die Foundation” launched Thursday and announced plans to transform an old recreation center in his hometown of Vallejo, Calif., into a community center for academic mentorship and athletic training for local youth.

The plans call for a complete remodel of the current complex, plus the installation of two basketball courts, a batting cage, a 19,000-square-foot academic center and, down the road, a football field that will be home to a Pop Warner football team.

By 2020, Anderson’s foundation hopes to launch its academic and athletic programs to provide tutoring and college preparation, as well access to its training facility and guidance in NCAA scholarships and eligibility.

The academic program will be geared to students from grade school to high school in nearby districts and will require each to submit bi-weekly reports to monitor their standing in school. SAT and ACT prep courses, as well as help in targeting prospective colleges and applying schools, will be provided to upperclassmen.

By 2022, the foundation hopes to have 10 of its students in college, while it continues to expand the sports complex and the program’s capacity.

Laney Alumn and Broncos’ C.J. Anderson credits Bay Area for NFL success

Laney Alumn and Broncos’ C.J. Anderson credits Bay Area for NFL success

In a second-floor hallway at Laney College, on a wall outside the football team meeting room, hangs a framed No. 22 Denver Broncos jersey.

John Beam, the Oakland school’s head football coach and athletic director, placed it there to inspire the next generation of Eagles players...