MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – In a heart-stirring act of generosity, former West Virginia University head coach Rich Rodriguez has stunned the community by transforming his $3.6 million luxury residence into a safe haven for homeless youth.
Rodriguez, who once led the Mountaineers to national prominence, announced that his estate—originally built as a private retreat—will now serve as a sanctuary for young people facing homelessness and hardship across Morgantown.
“This house was meant to be a place of comfort and peace,” Rodriguez said. “Now, I believe it can fulfill that purpose in a much greater way by giving kids a safe roof over their heads and a chance at a better life.”
A New Beginning for Vulnerable Youth
The estate, which boasts over 10,000 square feet, will be converted into a multi-functional shelter and rehabilitation center. Plans include bedrooms for dozens of residents, study areas, a recreation wing, and counseling facilities. Partnerships with local nonprofits and the city of Morgantown will ensure the center is fully staffed and equipped to provide not only housing but also education, career training, and emotional support.
Rodriguez emphasized that the focus is not just on providing shelter but on giving youth the tools to rebuild their lives. “It’s about opportunity, mentorship, and showing them that their past doesn’t define their future,” he said.
Community Reaction
The announcement has sparked waves of gratitude and admiration throughout Morgantown. Local leaders called the move “transformational,” noting that youth homelessness remains a growing concern in the region.
“Coach Rodriguez has always been a part of West Virginia’s story,” said Morgantown Mayor Jenny Selin. “But today he’s writing a chapter that will change countless lives for the better. This is bigger than football—it’s legacy.”
Former players and fans also flooded social media with praise, many highlighting how Rodriguez has used his platform to give back in a deeply personal way.
A Model for Others
While celebrity philanthropy is not new, Rodriguez’s decision to repurpose his own luxury home stands out as a bold and symbolic gesture. Experts in social care believe it could inspire others with resources to think creatively about how personal wealth and property can be redirected toward solving pressing social issues.
“This isn’t just a donation—it’s a transformation,” said social services advocate Carla Meadows. “Turning a place of privilege into a refuge for those in need is a powerful example of what leadership looks like off the field.”
Looking Ahead
Renovations are expected to begin immediately, with the first group of residents scheduled to move in before the end of the year. Rodriguez has pledged to remain actively involved in the project, serving as a mentor and advocate for the young people who will soon call his former home their own.
For Morgantown, the gesture is more than charity—it is a reminder of the power of compassion and community. For the youth who will walk through those doors, it could mean the beginning of an entirely new life.
