KNOX COUNTY, TN - During his Weekly Update on Friday, Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs talked about serving as principal for a day at Central High School, the 134th Air Refueling Wing, Operation Hero’s Hill, and more.

“A few years ago, Knox County Schools started the 865 Academies and, man, is it paying off,” Mayor Jacobs says. “I was blown away by what I saw at Central, the work-based learning, dual enrollment opportunities, internships. So many things that ensure our young people can thrive throughout and beyond high school.”

Additionally, he congratulated the 134th Air Refueling Wing based at the McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base. The U.S. Air Force recently selected the award-winning unit to house and fly the new KC-46 Pegasus refueling aircraft. The KC-46 Pegasus will replace the KC-135 Stratotanker which has been in operation since the late 1950s.

Finally, Mayor Jacobs pointed out that as we head into the season of gratitude and giving, he wanted to take a moment to talk about something close to his heart.

“There are 140 homeless veterans in Knox County,” he says. “That’s 140 men and women who’ve served our country and now need our help.”

Hero’s Hill represents a broad community partnership that includes local industry leaders, apprenticeship programs, and students from 865 Academy construction and electrical programs. Once complete, this project will provide supportive housing for 20 veterans experiencing homelessness and set a foundation for our future skilled workforce.

So, this Giving Tuesday, Dec. 2nd, the Mayor asks folks to help. If you are able, please consider donating $140 – that’s $1 for every homeless veteran in our county – to help build hope on Hero's Hill.

“Please visit OperationHerosHill.com to make a donation, and for more information. Thank you in advance,” he said.