Join Us in the Search for Bethany Markowski
Sign Ups Now Closed (Updated 10/13/25)
We’ve reached our goal with volunteers for this year’s search (October 18 & 19, 2025) and sign-ups are now closed. If you would like to volunteer for a future search, please fill out the form below. Thank you so much for your interest!
Bethany’s Brigade Search Team is organizing a community foot search for missing child Bethany Markowski, who disappeared in 2001. Working in coordination with law enforcement, our team will be conducting a focused grid search in the Sidonia, Tennessee area.
Important Update for Volunteers
We’ve updated our registration form to allow you to select the date you’re able to attend — October 18th or October 19th — in case you cannot commit to both days. Please note that whichever date you choose, you must be available for the entire day.
The search area includes rough terrain and there is the possibility of encountering snakes. Please make sure you are properly prepared both mentally and physically, and that you bring the right gear, clothing, and supplies needed for safe participation.
Thank you for standing with us in this effort.
Support the Search Team
Can’t join us in the field but still want to help? You can support Bethany’s Brigade Search Team by donating items from our Amazon Wish List. Your contributions help ensure that every volunteer has the supplies they need to search safely and effectively.
Search Dates & Commitment
- October 18 & 19, 2025
- Volunteers must be available for either day or both, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- 9:00 AM – Team briefing at meeting point
- 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM – Search hours
- 4:00 PM – Departure
We are aiming to gather a team of 30 volunteers to cover approximately 120 acres (under good conditions) of wetland and/or wooded terrain.
Who Can Volunteer
- Volunteers must be 18 years or older
- Must provide your own transportation to and from the search site
- Local community members to Sidonia, TN are especially encouraged to join
What the Search Involves
- Volunteers will walk in grid formation (arm’s length apart)
- Priority is on slow, thorough coverage
- Teams will watch for:
- Bone fragments (often darker in color)
- Clothing or items out of place
- Signs of animal activity or disturbed ground
- Any finds will be photographed, documented, and reported and will be not moved or shared publicly
Safety & Logistics
- Meeting point: A local Sidonia gathering spot (exact location provided after registration)
- Daylight only: No night searches
- Check-in & check-out required for all volunteers
- Safety briefing before each day’s search
- Emergency contact info required on sign-up
- All participants must attend at least one pre-search Zoom orientation (dates announced after registration)
What to Bring
Please let us know which items you already own when you sign up. This helps us focus fundraising on the supplies most needed.
Recommended gear:
- Hiking boots (no tennis shoes allowed)
- Bright safety vest or shirt
- Gaiters (for wetland terrain)
- Backpack with snacks, water, electrolytes
- Whistle
- Walking stick or broom handle
- First aid kit & snake bite kit
- Portable charger
- Optional: walkie talkie, GoPro/camera
Volunteer Roles
- Searchers – Walk grids and watch for clues
- Documenters – Take photos, keep logs
- Safety Watch – Monitor conditions and team wellbeing
- Support Crew – Help provide meals, drinks, or supplies
How to Join
If you meet the requirements and can commit to both days, please complete the form below. You will be asked to provide:
- Contact and emergency information
- Availability confirmation
- Equipment you already have
- Liability waiver acknowledgment
- Non-disclosure agreement
Together, with the support of our community, we can bring answers in Bethany’s case.
