The Rotary Club of Lebanon gathered for their weekly meeting at The Wallace Building, where members celebrated service, recognized dedication, and heard a moving story of hope for those battling addiction.
The meeting opened with the Rotarian of the Week, Rachel Starnes. Rachel has been a member of Rotary in Lebanon for three years, joining shortly after her husband. She shared how volunteering her time, such as serving steak sandwiches at the Laclede County Fair, has given her a meaningful way to give back. Her story was a reminder that community impact often begins with simple acts of service.
Lauren Mitchell of Lane Change, introduced the program's guest speaker Robert Headley. Robert spoke with emotion about Shayla’s Lighthouse, a project that broke ground just yesterday. Named after his daughter Shayla, whose life was tragically lost to substance abuse, the facility will provide safe housing for women in recovery. It will be a place of security, support, education, and inspiration, a true lighthouse for those navigating the difficult waters of addiction.
Robert’s words carried both grief and hope. Addiction, he explained, has touched his life deeply, just as it has Lauren’s. Lauren shared how her own journey and her spouse’s struggle with addiction inspired her to dedicate her time and energy to helping others. Together, they believe that Shayla’s Lighthouse will not only offer shelter but will also change lives.
“If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, you are not alone,” Robert reminded the group. Help is available through Lane Change at 679 W. Elm St. #2, Lebanon. The organization can be reached at (417) 991-3727.
As the meeting drew to a close, the message was clear: Rotary continues to be more than a weekly gathering. It is a place where service, leadership, and compassion come together to shape a stronger, more hopeful community.
For those who feel called to join in this mission, opportunities to become a Rotarian are always open. Contact Jase Glendenning, Melinda Fries, or Ryan Sherrer to learn more.
At Lebanon Now, we believe stories like these deserve to be told. Sarah Hampton, our community features reporter, is always looking to share the stories of people who inspire hope and healing. If you have a story worth sharing, email her at sarah@lebanonmonow.com.
A final word of encouragement: hope grows when ordinary people take extraordinary steps. From a simple meal served at the fair, to a safe home built for recovery, to a club that gathers week after week, this is how communities heal. This is how they thrive.
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