KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – An event hosted by Empower Knox Youth on Saturday morning aimed to equip young Knoxville citizens with the knowledge and tools to understand and address the city’s ongoing housing and homelessness challenges. Held at the University of Tennessee’s Baker School, the summit focused on the pressing issue of housing affordability and the growing visibility of homelessness in the area.
Emily Norris, the engagement manager for Empower Knox Youth, emphasized the importance of involving younger voices in conversations about the future of housing in Knoxville. “I think it came to the forefront as an issue for young people, because sometimes going around downtown, they’re seeing it more,” Norris said. “They hear about it on the news and feel the impact of rising rent and home prices, especially if their family is struggling to keep up with increasing costs.”
The yearly event, which centers on different topics each time, highlighted homelessness as a key concern for the local youth. This year’s summit brought together a range of speakers, including Kevin DuBose, Knoxville’s Director of Housing and Neighborhood Development. DuBose provided an overview of the city’s current housing crisis, explaining that the region simply does not have enough housing to meet demand.
“Our mayor really advocates for young people being more involved in advocating for policies that will create housing in our area,” Norris stated. “Kevin DuBose shared the difficult realities of the housing crunch, explaining why the situation is what it is right now.”
The summit’s primary goal was to engage the youth in tackling homelessness and push for more sustainable housing solutions. By including local leaders and offering insights into the policy and practical sides of housing development, the event aimed to spark long-term conversations and actions within the younger generation to advocate for change.
As housing affordability continues to be a critical issue for Knoxville’s residents, Empower Knox Youth’s efforts to involve the community’s younger voices in advocacy are seen as an important step toward building a more inclusive and sustainable future.
