The Shelby County Commission meeting on July 28, 2025, celebrated the impactful work of Sarah Carpenter Owens and the Memphis Lift, a community organization dedicated to improving educational opportunities for children. Commissioner Britney Thornton led the resolution honoring Owens, highlighting her commitment to advocating for children's rights and access to quality education.

Owens, a passionate community advocate, co-founded the Memphis Lift in June 2015 with just 19 parents. Since then, the organization has expanded to over 4,000 volunteers, including parents, grandparents, and community members. The Memphis Lift focuses on empowering families by providing resources such as a community food pantry, school uniform assistance, and educational classes.

During the meeting, Thornton emphasized Owens' belief that those closest to the issues should lead the fight for solutions. The Memphis Lift actively engages with families through one-on-one meetings, door-to-door outreach, and participation in school board and county commission meetings. This grassroots approach has made a significant impact on advocating for academic justice and child-centered policies in the community.

Commissioners expressed their gratitude for Owens' dedication and the positive changes she has fostered through the Memphis Lift. The recognition serves not only as a tribute to Owens but also as an acknowledgment of the ongoing efforts to reform educational systems and support families in Shelby County. The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration and support for initiatives that uplift the community's children and families.