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The Joplin Association for the Blind, founded in 1923, provides vital services like transportation, social activities, and vision enhancement tools for those with low vision or blindness, powered by dedicated volunteers like the O’Brian family. Their efforts, from cooking meals to driving clients, create a community of care and connection, proving the profound impact of family-driven volunteerism.

Renowned composer and pianist Glenda Austin will perform an engaging and interactive concert, A Few of My Favorite Things (And Yours, Too!), on January 18 at the Cornell Complex, blending hymns, movie themes, jazz, and audience requests alongside special guest performers. The following week, on January 25, comedian Rondell Sheridan, known for his role on That’s So Raven, will bring his witty and relatable show, If You’re Over 40 & You Know It, Clap Your Hands, to the same stage for an evening of laughter and storytelling.

Track 94 Brewery, founded by Jared and Sheila Whitehead in Seneca, Missouri, has become a community hub offering craft beer, diverse food options, and unique features like a cigar lounge and live events. Despite challenges, including relocating due to railroad disputes, the brewery has thrived with community support, expanding into a larger space and distributing its beer locally. With its welcoming atmosphere and innovative offerings, Track 94 is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of community.

Rivers Bend Family Resort, created by couples Jim and Juanita Tonsing and Kyle and Anesa Knight, spans 27 acres of cabins, RV and tent sites, disc golf and event space alongside a full-service creekside restaurant. Its signature heated igloo dining—where guests enjoy homemade jalapeño cream cheese wontons and “Anesa’s Special” fries while watching deer, eagles and turtles—has become a beloved seasonal tradition, and the resort welcomes visitors year-round for lodging, dining and family-friendly gatherings.

Big Spring Artistry, founded by mother-daughter duo Sheena and Arabel StandingBear, combines their Osage and Texan heritage with a deep love of nature to create unique art pieces ranging from jewelry to wearable art. Alongside their creative work, they are passionate advocates for Hereditary Angioedema (HAE), transforming their personal challenges into a mission of resilience and awareness.

Mountain biking, introduced to McDonald County schools through the National Interscholastic Cycling Association, has quickly grown in popularity, offering students of all backgrounds a chance to compete, build confidence, and develop lifelong fitness habits. Led by Coach Greg Capps and supported by local businesses, the program emphasizes both individual achievement and team spirit, helping students discover their potential on and off the trails.

The Jasper County Cemetery Preservation Society, led by volunteers like Rikki Smith, works to restore and protect nearly 130 historic cemeteries in Jasper County, Missouri, preserving local heritage and reuniting families with ancestral graves. Through hands-on restoration, community education, and partnerships, JCCPS ensures these sites remain respected landmarks and living links to the past.

Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity honored seven veterans for their service and community involvement, many of whom have benefited from Habitat’s housing programs. The organization provides affordable homeownership, repairs, and support for veterans, relying on volunteers and donations to meet the ongoing need for safe, affordable housing in the region.

Show Me The Ozarks Magazine honors influential community leaders whose dedication, innovation, and service have made a significant positive impact across the Four States region over the past year.