A story of resilience has written itself in Joplin, Missouri over the last thirteen years. It began with a devastating tornado but transformed into a narrative of rebirth and strength. On May 22, 2011, Joplin was struck by an EF5 tornado that claimed lives, homes, businesses, and our tree canopy. Yet, from the rubble, our community determined not just to rebuild, but to create something stronger and more enduring.
Our reconstruction is a testament to a community united with a shared vision of recovery and improvement. Mercy Hospital stands as a modern hospital in a new location. In its place stands Mercy Park with a lake, a sculpture garden and replica of the Mercy Chapel. Nearby is the KCU Medical and Dental School – a remarkable achievement for a city of 50,000 people. Our high school was rebuilt with the future in mind. We have a new performing arts center and art gallery with the Cornell Center downtown. Our business recovery has been remarkable at every level.
The resilience of Joplin is not just in the structures but in the spirit of its people. The community's response to the disaster was immediate and powerful. Volunteers poured in, neighbors helped neighbors, and a city's heart beat stronger than the storm that tried to silence it. It would be an incomplete story if we didn’t acknowledge the difficulties of recovery and the toll that it took on the community and its leaders. However, we have taken the lessons learned from tragedy to heart and community members continue to pay it forward across the country. It’s clear that the tornado has changed our DNA. The tornado is not often top of mind but when the weather takes a turn for the worse, we take it seriously.
This week was the final Joplin Memorial Run – a tradition that served as a reminder for us to reflect on all@ that we have been through. We will NEVER forget the 161 family, neighbors and friends that passed away. Our progress is a testament to our loss. In the first years of recovery, we adopted the motto “Recover Joplin.” At the five-year mark, we replaced that with “Joplin Proud.” Thirteen years have passed - we should continue to be proud of how far we have come.
#JoplinStrong #Resilience #CommunitySpirit #HopeRenewed