At this week’s Rotary Club meeting at The Wallace Building, Lebanon Now was on site to share the stories of service and community that make Rotary such a valued part of Lebanon.
Rotary President Jase Glendenning presented this week’s Rotarian of the Week video, honoring Rachelle Jennings. Rachelle shared about a program that, as both a mother and school principal, is especially meaningful to her, Coats for Kids. This initiative provides warm coats for children in need, easing the burden on families and giving hope to our community. In her message, Rachelle reminded everyone that Rotary is about more than self, it’s about making an impact and building something greater together.
The guest speakers were from the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO). Kendra Burnham of CBCO and Mary Ann, Lab Manager at Mercy, spoke on why blood donations are so vital. CBCO is the sole nonprofit blood center serving Mercy Lebanon and more than 40 hospitals across 40 counties in southwest Missouri, northwest Arkansas, and southeast Kansas.
Each month, CBCO organizes 80–100 mobile blood drives, with 70% of donations coming from these mobile units. Here in Lebanon, CBCO partners with Mercy Hospital, the Laclede County Library, Lebanon High School, Lowe’s, Tabernacle Christian Academy, Copeland, Jordan Valley Clinic, Lake Regional Clinic, and First State Bank. The next local opportunity to give will be Mercy Hospital’s blood drive on October 15 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Donating blood is a simple act, but it saves lives every single day. One donation can make the difference for someone undergoing surgery, fighting cancer, or surviving an accident. The need is constant, and your gift ensures that when a neighbor or loved one needs blood, it’s there waiting.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make an immediate impact in your community, this is it. Roll up your sleeve, give blood, and be part of the lifeline that sustains our families, our friends, and our future.
The Rotary Club continues to be a place where service, leadership, and community spirit come together. If you are inspired to be part of something greater, opportunities to join are always open. To learn more about becoming a Rotarian, contact Jase Glendenning, Melinda Fries, or any other Rotarian.
At Lebanon Now, we believe stories like these deserve to be told. Sarah Hampton is our community features reporter. If you have a story worth sharing, email her at sarah@lebanonmonow.com
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