Joplin, MO – A celebration of the merger between One Joplin and Active Lifestyle Events (ALE) is set for 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Friday, March 14 in the back room of Joplin Avenue Coffee at 506 S. Joplin Avenue.

The two organizations uniting under the One Joplin banner as a single nonprofit organization was an idea that just “makes sense,” says Nicole Brown, executive director of One Joplin.

Formed in 2011, ALE’s central mission has been to encourage and foster active lifestyles in the local community. Their primary activity has been supporting the annual Joplin Memorial Run. The annual half marathon, 5K run, and kids’ run was launched in 2012 in honor of the 161 lives lost during the May 22, 2011, tornado. The final memorial run was held on May 18, 2024.

“Through the years Active Lifestyle Events has donated over $300,000 to the rebuilding of our city while at the same time promoting health and fitness to our citizens,” says Audie Dennis, ALE Board President. “One Joplin’s mission, specifically through its health and fitness initiatives, is a perfect fit to carry on our mission.”

Funds raised from the event has been used to support grants for organizations such as Bright Futures and the Joplin Trails Coalition.

“We want to continue the legacy that ALE has created,” says Brown. “Health is impacted by many factors including literacy, housing, and social connection. One Joplin seeks to identify and meet the community’s highest needs in health, education, literacy, and poverty. We see our missions tying closely together.”

Brown says that ALE’s treasurer, Tonya Sprenkle, previously served on One Joplin’s Steering Team, and Audie Dennis plans to join in 2025.

A networking brunch will follow the ceremonial passing of the baton between the two organizations. The media as well as current and past One Joplin or ALE volunteers are invited to attend.