Josh Heupe and Spouse Donate $2.5 Million to Aid Homeless Youth in Knoxville
Knoxville, Tenn. — May 21, 2025 — University of Tennessee head football coach Josh Heupel and his spouse have made headlines off the field with a powerful act of philanthropy. The couple announced a $2.5 million donation, along with incentives and endorsement opportunities, to a Tennessee-based nonprofit organization committed to helping homeless youth across Knoxville and surrounding areas.
The donation, which marks one of the largest private contributions to youth homelessness relief in the state’s history, was made to Vols Hope Haven, a Knoxville nonprofit that provides shelter, counseling, education, and career development programs to homeless and at-risk young people.
Speaking at a press conference held Tuesday afternoon at the nonprofit’s downtown Knoxville facility, Heupel said, “This community has embraced me, my family, and our players from day one. We believe in giving back, and there’s no better cause than helping the next generation find stability, purpose, and hope.”
Heupel, who has led the Volunteers to national prominence since taking the helm in 2021, was joined by his wife at the event. The couple emphasized their commitment not just to writing a check but also to working closely with Vols Hope Haven to build new housing units, create mentorship programs, and establish pathways for youth to gain scholarships, internships, and long-term employment.
The $2.5 million gift will be distributed over the next three years, with $1 million allocated immediately to expand transitional housing facilities in East Knoxville. Another $1 million will be used to launch a new educational initiative, “Pathways to Promise,” which will provide tutoring, college prep, and vocational training. The remaining $500,000 will be placed in an endowment fund to support emergency services like food, healthcare, and mental health support.
In addition to their financial donation, the Heupels are lending their public profiles to further amplify the mission. Josh Heupel has committed to appearing in a statewide PSA campaign promoting youth homelessness awareness, while his wife will lead a new advisory board of volunteers, educators, and former program participants.
“We’re proud to see leaders like Coach Heupel take their influence beyond the football field,” said Sarah Dalton, Executive Director of Vols Hope Haven. “This donation and the Heupels’ involvement will change lives. It gives us the momentum and resources to reach more youth than ever before.”
According to data from the Tennessee Department of Human Services, over 13,000 children and young adults across the state are considered homeless or housing insecure. Knoxville, with its growing urban population, has seen an increase in demand for youth services in recent years, making the Heupels’ gift especially timely.
Local officials, university leaders, and student-athletes were present at the announcement. Several players from the Tennessee football team have expressed interest in volunteering with Vols Hope Haven, signaling a ripple effect throughout the athletic community.
University of Tennessee Chancellor Donde Plowman praised the Heupels for their dedication: “Josh and his family are leaders in every sense. This goes beyond sports. It’s about compassion, values, and stepping up when it counts.”
The Heupels’ commitment, both financial and personal, sets a new bar for civic engagement by collegiate leaders. As Knoxville continues to confront the challenges of youth homelessness, the city now does so with stronger community support—and renewed hope.
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