Belmont Bell Tower Serves Big in Memphis: A Weekend of Purpose and Perspective

From the moment their bus pulled up to the St. George’s Bunkhouse, the 50+ students from Belmont University's Bell Tower Scholars were all in. Over four days in early August, these young changemakers engaged deeply with Memphis—its people, its history, and its hope—through a Serve901 alternative break experience.

Their service began in the soil—literally—at Knowledge Quest’s Green Leaf Learning Farm, where students rolled up their sleeves for urban agriculture and food justice. Others got their hands dirty in Carpenter Art Garden’s community food garden, supporting its mission to nurture creativity and self-worth among Binghampton youth through hands-on learning, artistic expression, and neighborhood revitalization.

From there, they stocked and sorted at Mid-South Food Bank, assisted with fresh produce at Landmark Training Development Co. in Orange Mound, and distributed hygiene kits and clothes with Jacob’s Well, a church rooted in radical hospitality. The team also got a taste of Memphis’ legacy—soul food at The Four Way, a step back in time at the STAX Museum, and a deep reflection at the National Civil Rights Museum.

During their visit to Crosstown Concourse, the group heard from a representative of Memphis Teacher Residency (MTR), gaining insight into how education equity is being pursued in Memphis and how passionate graduates can make a long-term impact through teaching.

In total, Belmont Bell Tower contributed over 400 volunteer hours to Memphis in just one weekend. But as always with Serve901, the numbers only tell part of the story. The real transformation happened in hearts and minds—in conversations, in new perspectives, and in growing clarity about vocation, calling, and community.

Memphis is more than a destination. It’s a classroom, a partner, and a place that stays with you long after the trip ends.

Ready to plan your own transformative Memphis service trip?
Schedule a call and let Serve901 handle the details—from lodging to logistics—so you can focus on the impact.