MIAMI -- Speaking to eager kids on courtside bleachers at the Overtown Youth Center in Miami on Monday, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick continued his transformation from convicted dogfighter to mentor.

"That's my goal, to try to send a message across the world, use my story as a testimony to help a lot of young kids," Vick told Local 10's Janine Stanwood.

Several dozen elementary school children hollered and clapped when Vick took to the floor and began speaking.

"I believed in myself. And, as young kids right now, that's probably the most important thing you have to do. Believe in yourself," he told them.

Vick was released from home confinement last summer after being sentenced to 23 months in federal prison.

"I was involved in things I never was supposed to be involved in. That was my downfall," he said.

Last summer, Vick was given a second chance at football: signing a deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.

He speaks to kids about twice a month with the Humane Society about dog-fighting as part of his probation.

"I think it helps everyone succeed and stay on the right track," said Keyana Joseph, a fourth-grader.

But for Vick, it's more than just a probation requirement.

"It's not just an obligation, because I look at so many lives that can be affected," he said.

"We have forgiven Michael Vick," said Tio Hardiman, of the Humane Society of America.

Hardiman also believes he public has forgiven Vick, too.

"America loves a great redemption story," he said.