Tennessee Missing Children’s Day 2026 Press Kit
About the Day
Tennessee Missing Children’s Day is observed annually on March 4th, the day 11-year-old Bethany Markowski disappeared in 2001. Established through legislative action in 2017, this day honors Bethany’s memory and the tireless advocacy of her mother, Jonnie Carter.
This annual event is organized by The Bethany Markowski Foundation and brings together families, law enforcement, and the public to raise awareness for all missing children across the state of Tennessee.
Event Leadership
Jonnie Carter
Mother of Bethany Markowski and founder of The Bethany Markowski Foundation, Jonnie serves as the lead organizer of Tennessee Missing Children’s Day. Her personal experience drives this day of remembrance, safety education, and community support.
Event Overview
- Annual Participation: Families of missing children, law enforcement, media, and volunteers
- Safety Services: Free child ID kits and child safety education
- Community Impact: Involvement from 20+ partner organizations
- Support: Emotional and logistical resources for affected families
Key Components
- Remembrance ceremony honoring Bethany and all of Tennessee’s missing children
- Free child fingerprinting and ID safety kits
- Presentations by law enforcement and child safety advocates
- Networking for families and professionals
- Evening candlelight vigil & balloon release
Historical Impact
Since 2017, this event has:
- Created a statewide support network for affected families
- Improved cooperation between law enforcement and communities
- Distributed hundreds of child ID kits to Tennessee families
- Raised lasting awareness of Bethany’s case and others like hers
Legislative Documents
- Download the Tennessee Missing Children’s Day Resolution (PDF)
- Download the Tennessee Missing Children’s Day Bill (PDF)
About Bethany Markowski
Bethany was 11 years old when she vanished on March 4, 2001. Although her father reported she disappeared from Old Hickory Mall in Jackson, Tennessee, no surveillance footage ever confirmed her presence there. Her last confirmed sighting was the day before, in Little Rock, Arkansas.
- Hair: Brown
- Eyes: Blue
- Height: 4’8″
- Weight: 95 lbs
- Status: Still Missing
- Case Status: Active & Ongoing
Her story inspired Tennessee Missing Children’s Day and continues to fuel public awareness campaigns and legislative advocacy to protect children in Tennessee and beyond.
Media Inquiries
The Bethany Markowski Foundation
Email: team@findbethany.org
Our Sponsors & Partners
A heartfelt thank you to all sponsors, partners, and donors who make this event possible.
Want to support the 2026 event?
Email sponsor@findbethany.org or visit our sponsorship page