One Joplin is excited to invite families, educators, and community members to a special ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the latest StoryWalk® installation at Leonard Park. The event will take place on Thursday, June 5, at 11:00 AM at Leonard Park, 408 Turk Avenue, Joplin.
This new installation features the children’s book The Mighty McKraken by beloved local author Izzy B (Isaiah Basey). The story combines whimsical pirate adventures with a surprising message about kindness and manners, making it both entertaining and educational for readers of all ages.
The project is made possible through a collaborative partnership between One Joplin, OWN INC., and Joplin Parks and Recreation. This partnership reflects a growing commitment within the community to promote early childhood literacy, support local creatives, and provide engaging outdoor experiences for families.
“We are grateful for community-minded businesses like OWN Engineering who are willing to invest in educational initiatives,” said Nicole Brown, Executive Director of One Joplin. “The StoryWalk® at Leonard Park is a wonderful way for families to connect, enjoy nature, and encourage a love of reading in their children.”
Jessica Pommert, Co-Chair of the One Joplin Education and Literacy Team, expressed her enthusiasm about showcasing local talent. “We were thrilled to highlight a story from one of our own. Izzy B’s The Mighty McKraken brings laughter and learning to life—who knew pirates could be such good role models for manners?”
The StoryWalk® will remain in place at Leonard Park through August 2025, giving families all summer to enjoy the interactive reading experience. For those interested in more literary outdoor adventures, another StoryWalk® is also available at the Joplin Public Library.
Christina Matekel-Gibson, Co-Chair of the One Joplin Education and Literacy Team and Children’s Librarian at the Joplin Public Library, shared the team’s broader vision: “Our goal is to create a rotating collection of StoryWalks® that can be enjoyed throughout the community year-round. We’re also exploring opportunities to establish additional permanent installations in other parks and public spaces.”
One Joplin continues to drive initiatives that address community needs in Education, Literacy, Health, and Poverty by fostering partnerships and collective action. The StoryWalk® program exemplifies this mission, offering a fun and meaningful way for families to engage in literacy activities together.
“This is our second StoryWalk® installation of the year, and we’re thrilled to bring a new reason for families to get outside and explore the beauty of Leonard Park,” Brown added. “This project embodies what can be accomplished when organizations work together to strengthen our community.”
The StoryWalk® Project was originally created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. It has since become a national movement to bring literacy into everyday outdoor spaces.
For more information about One Joplin and ongoing community literacy efforts, visit www.onejoplin.com or contact Nicole Brown at director@onejoplin.com or 417-726-9123.
