The birth of a vision

Some of the best ideas start around the kitchen table. One night in November 2017, Sarah Crabtree Perez shared with her husband, JJ, her strong desire to help working single mothers who are economically disadvantaged. But what could they do?

As working parents, Sarah and JJ recognized one of their biggest financial hurdles was ensuring their three children had quality child care. Thinking about the uphill battle many women face to work, further their education, attain their goals and provide a safe, stable economic future for their families, this idea formed: provide working single mothers with resources to help fund quality child care. She was spurred into action.

Of course, it takes creative minds and many hands to move from a conversation, to a dream, to something tangible and real. Sarah’s dream and desire to make a difference is becoming a reality – thanks to the tremendous support and shared vision of her husband; father-in-law, John; colleagues at Perez & Morris and community partners who formed the first Overcomer Foundation Advisory Board.

Together, they established the Overcomer Foundation – an organization that provides working single mothers with funding to help cover child care expenses. But, it’s more than providing financial assistance. Sarah seeks to serve as a true partner with those involved in the program and will do “everything in my power get them to the finish line."

“Financially, we will provide assistance for child care, but beyond that we want to be there for these families and serve as mentors, resources and connection points to help them reach their fullest potential. I am most excited to meet the women and walk with them through their everyday struggles,” said Sarah.

Sarah Crabtree Perez
Founder and Immediate Past Chair
Overcomer Foundation

Sarah Crabtree Perez is co-founder, immediate past chair and president of the Overcomer Foundation. She is an attorney at Perez & Morris LLC, Columbus, Ohio, where she handles a variety of commercial litigation, labor and employment and transactional matters. She also manages the day-to-day operation of the firm. Her experience is varied and includes nearly two years as outside General Counsel for a transportation and logistics company with approximately 800 employees operating nationwide.

Sarah is licensed to practice in state and federal courts in Ohio and Florida and is fluent in Spanish. In 2015 and 2016, she was recognized as a Rising Star in Litigation and in 2018 as a Super Lawyer by Super Lawyers Magazine. In 2018, Sarah was recognized as one of Columbus Business First’s 40 Under 40.

Sarah received her J.D. from Hofstra University School of Law, with honors. She lives in Worthington, Ohio, with her husband, JJ, and their three children.