Breaking News: Kellie Harper $3.6 Million to transform a house into a shelter for homeless youth in Tennessee serious…

BREAKING NEWS: KELLIE HARPER DONATES $3.6 MILLION TO TRANSFORM HOUSE INTO SHELTER FOR HOMELESS YOUTH IN TENNESSEE

Lady Vols’ Head Coach Kellie Harper Makes Transformational $3.6 Million Gift to Address Youth Homelessness in Tennessee

**KNOXVILLE, TN** — In a move that underscores her commitment to community service beyond the basketball court, University of Tennessee women’s basketball head coach **Kellie Harper** has donated **$3.6 million** to convert a historic property into a **state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth** in Knoxville. The project, set to break ground later this year, aims to provide housing, education, and career support for at-risk young people across Tennessee.

Harper, who has led the Lady Vols since 2019, announced the initiative in partnership with **Youth Haven Tennessee**, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting unhoused adolescents. The shelter, once completed, will be named **”Harper House”** in honor of her family’s philanthropic legacy.

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### **Why This Project Matters**

Homelessness among young people is a **growing crisis** in Tennessee, with an estimated **4,000+ youth experiencing homelessness** on any given night, according to the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth. Many of these individuals are **LGBTQ+ youth, foster care alumni, or victims of abuse** who lack stable housing and resources.

Harper’s donation will fund:

– **Safe, long-term housing** for up to **30 young adults** (ages 18-24)

– **On-site counseling and mental health services**

– **Job training and educational programs** in partnership with local businesses and Pellissippi State Community College

– **A basketball court and recreation space** (a nod to Harper’s career)

*”This isn’t just about a roof over their heads—it’s about giving them the tools to build a future,”* Harper said in an emotional press conference.

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### **How the Idea Came to Life**

Harper and her husband, **Jon Harper** (an assistant coach for the Lady Vols), have quietly supported homeless advocacy groups for years. The idea for **Harper House** solidified after Kellie volunteered at a local youth shelter and saw firsthand the struggles these young people face.

*”I met a 19-year-old who was sleeping in his car while working two jobs to pay for community college,”* Harper shared. *”No kid should have to fight that hard just to survive. If we can change even one life, this is worth it.”*

The **$3.6 million donation** comes from Harper’s personal earnings, including her salary and endorsement deals. Additional funding is being raised through a **public campaign**, with Lady Vols alumni and fans already pledging support.

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### **Community and Celebrity Reactions**

– **Dawn Staley** (South Carolina head coach and Harper’s longtime friend): *”Kellie’s always had a heart for others. This is next-level. I’m so proud of her.”*

– **Tamika Catchings** (WNBA legend and Tennessee alum): *”This is what it means to be a Lady Vol—leading on and off the court.”*

– **Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon**: *”Coach Harper’s generosity will change lives for generations. We’re grateful for her leadership.”*

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### **What’s Next?**

– **Construction begins Fall 2024**, with the shelter expected to open by **Summer 2025**.

– Harper plans to involve **Lady Vols players in mentorship programs** at the facility.

– A **telethon fundraiser** is in the works, featuring appearances from Tennessee sports legends.

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### **Final Thoughts**

While Kellie Harper is best known for **coaching elite athletes**, this project proves her real legacy is **uplifting those who need it most**. As she put it:

*”Basketball is what I do. Helping people is who I am.”*