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Knoxville Youth Summit

Knoxville Youth Summit
at the Knoxville Convention Center

Youth Action Council is a partnership between United Way and the Knox County and City Mayors’ offices.

What is the Knoxville Youth Summit?
The Knoxville Youth Summit is Knoxville's premiere event for youth, by youth.

Local teens coordinate the event and facilitate the day's activities so that youth leave empowered to change their communities.

The Summit is an opportunity for high school students across Knox County to come together and address the issues youth are facing every day.

It's a fun event with entertainment and activities throughout the day, in addition to interactive workshops and a chance to discuss ideas with local leaders.

Guest Speakers at the 2006 Youth Summit hosted on April 17th delivered the message to young people that teens truly can make a difference with determination and a positive attitude.

Guest Speaker - Pat Summitt
Pat Summitt, The University of Tennessee's Head Women's Basketball Coach, has recorded more than 900 career victories making her the winningest coach in history.

Including her recent win of the 2006 Southeastern Conference Championship, she has coached UT to 12 SEC tournament titles.

In 1996, she chaired the United Way campaign in Knoxville and in 1997 was honored at a White House luncheon as one of the "25 Most Influential Working Mothers."

Pat Summitt never underestimates the potential of the young people with whom she works. Throughout her own life and career, she has proven time and again that those who start a journey as believers can certainly become achievers.

Featured Speaker - Josh Shipp
Abandoned, neglected, and abused as a child, Josh's personal story of triumph over tragedy inspires youth to overcome life's struggles and live life to the fullest.

You will be amazed at the emotional journey that Josh Shipp will take you on, in merely an hour. Laughing at human nature, games you haven't played since kindergarten, and true stories about trips to Wal-Mart and exploding microwaves.

Josh understands what it feels like to try and form and discover your identity and purpose. He has learned that life's battles can be won, armed with a sense of humor and an optimistic attitude. Sharing his struggles, Josh encourages people to view their lives through a new lens.

This empowering story of triumph encourages all people to think of themselves, and their mistakes not as a mess, but as a message.

Learn more at Josh Shipp's official website.

What's in it for the delegates of the Knoxville Youth Summit
"Delegates" or student representatives attending the Youth Summit have a lot to gain by participating. You will meet new people, improve your leadership skills, make a difference in the community, and if you want to, you might even learn something.