How Chick-fil-A Union and Teach901 Partnered to Celebrate Memphis Educators

This Teacher Appreciation Week, Chick-fil-A Union joined forces with Teach901 to throw a block party for educators—sending a clear message that Memphis teachers matter, that local businesses can lead with generosity, and when communities and organizations come together, we can truly make an impact.

A Calling to Serve

Before Chick-fil-A Operator Justin Burkhead ran the Union location, he worked at a church.

“From 2010 to 2020 I was a church planter and pastor in Midtown Memphis, and one of our elders was a Chick-fil-A Operator. I watched him pour into his community through his local business during that time and fell in love with the opportunity,” Justin shares.

That influence sparked a new kind of calling—one rooted in food and service.

“Becoming a Chick-fil-A owner/operator is incredibly difficult. So, after I made the commitment to pursue the opportunity, I joined his restaurant team, got an opportunity to work for Chick-fil-A Inc, and then finally got selected to be the owner of our Union Ave location. Being in the restaurant business allows me to be around good food daily, serve others, and create a space for community.”

Supporting Teachers

When the opportunity arose to support local educators through Teach901’s Teacher Appreciation Block Party, Justin didn’t hesitate.

“Teach901 recruits talented teachers to local schools in Memphis. I love supporting Teach901 because of the potential role that a teacher can play in a student’s life. I believe that Memphis becomes better when we are able to introduce better teachers in the lives of our future citizens and leaders.”

On May 8th at the Chick-fil-A on Union Avenue, a portion of all proceeds from that day was donated to Teach901 to support their ongoing efforts to recruit and retain quality teachers in Memphis.

And once 4:30pm rolled around, the block party for teachers began. Teachers and school staff were treated to gift cards, Teach901 swag, and giveaways. 

Chick-fil-A’s Committment to Generosity

For Justin and his 120 team members, service is about more than just efficiency or a friendly greeting at the window.

“Chick-fil-A strives to be the world’s most caring company, and as a franchisee I get to make that vision a local reality. We train our team members to try and be the best part of the day for our guests. So bringing positivity and valuable experiences are a big part of our commitment.”

Chick-fil-A Union’s partnership with Teach901 is a perfect example of what happens when businesses put community first. It’s proof that generosity doesn’t have to be an abstract value—it can look like hot sandwiches, block parties, and the choice to say “yes” to lifting up local heroes.

When a business leader like Justin Burkhead lives out his values in the workplace, the ripple effects go far beyond the restaurant floor. They echo into classrooms, across neighborhoods, and into the future of a city built on caring.