From Tire Shop to Empowerment: The Story of Liberty Station

Mar 25, 2024 at 09:00 am by WGNS News

Hear the full interview below...


MURFREESBORO, TN - It sits inside what was once an automotive tire shop… Liberty’s Station is one of the most distinct eateries in Rutherford County, serving as a training ground for adults with a myriad of disabilities.

Jody Powers is the founder of the establishment that’s open three days a week for lunch and coffee. She explained that Liberty Station is far more than a restaurant…

A multitude of residents face disabilities that make it hard to gain meaningful employment. Judy Overton, an occupational therapist at Liberty’s Station, highlighted one problem that disabled adults face when hired at grocery stores, retail outlets, and other establishments…

Powers emphasized the importance of training employees in a way that they can understand, because great training builds confidence. The opposite of confidence is a feeling of incompetence, which leads a worker to make mistakes based on a lack of understanding. She went on to talk about the conversations she’s had with the parents of several disabled adults…

The mission of the local eatery is simple: "Serving individuals with employment obstacles through meaningful job training and placement by developing their God-given potential."

Upcoming Event: A Spring Gallery Formal” will showcase local artists with creative talents on April 18, 2024. Tickets are available HERE or on the Liberty Station website.