How a spirit of kindness grew in the aftermath of a tornado — and remains 15 years on

NPR | By Pauline Bartolone

Published May 22, 2026 at 4:46 PM EDT

Fifteen years ago, after a massive tornado flattened much of Joplin, Mo., nearly 100,000 volunteers helped the town rebuild. A spirit of community service lives on in Joplin today.

Recent Stories

WRVO is at a critical moment.

Recent cuts to federal funding are challenging our mission to serve central and upstate New York with trusted journalism, vital local coverage, and the diverse programming that informs and connects our communities. This is the moment to join our community of supporters and help keep journalists on the ground, asking hard questions that matter to our region.

Stand with public media and make your gift today—not just for yourself, but for all who depend on WRVO as a trusted resource and civic cornerstone in central and upstate New York.

Support WRVO now