Eric Knox
About Eric
Eric Knox is a community leader and the visionary founder and Executive Director of HOLLA, a culturally specific mentoring organization dedicated to changing the narrative of Black, Brown, and Indigenous youth through culturally responsive relationships. A native of Inglewood, CA, Eric's journey began with a basketball scholarship that took him to Oregon State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree. His commitment to community and service was further solidified through his Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care from Western Seminary in Portland, OR.
In the 1990s, Eric founded Urban Progress, an organization that gained recognition for its impactful work in marginalized neighborhoods. Urban Progress was honored with a runner-up spot for the esteemed “Drum Major for Justice” award, handed out to those making a difference in marginalized neighborhoods.
Following his success with Urban Progress, Eric established HOLLA with a mission to provide mentorship that resonates with the lived experiences of Black and Brown youth. Under his leadership, HOLLA has thrived for over 11 years, positioning itself as a beacon of hope in East Portland. The organization connects youth with mentors who reflect their identities and embody the possibilities of their futures. HOLLA’s commitment to nurturing potential is reflected in its newly launched HOLLA School, a public charter school in the Rockwood neighborhood in east Portland—that is changing the academic narrative for Black, Brown and Indigenous youth through believing that there is abundance, brilliance, and creativity in every child.
Eric is a sought out speaker on topics of mentorship, sustainability in nonprofit work including self care, and stories of transformation.
