Background

The Miracle of The Human Spirit: A Volunteer Tribute

A tribute to the volunteers who helped Joplin, Missouri, recover from the devastating 2011 tornado, symbolizing hope and community resilience.

A poignant memorial in Joplin, Missouri, honoring the volunteers who aided the city's recovery after the devastating 2011 tornado. It stands as a symbol of resilience and the power of community.

A brief summary to The Miracle of The Human Spirit

  • 2506 Annie Baxter Ave, Joplin, Missouri, 64804, US

Local tips

  • Take time to reflect on the significance of the memorial and the impact of the 2011 tornado.
  • Explore the other memorials within Cunningham Park related to the tornado and its aftermath.
  • Consider visiting the memorial during daylight hours to fully appreciate the details of the design and landscaping.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Joplin, begin at the Joplin History and Mineral Museum on S Main St. Head south to 5th St, then turn left (east). Continue to Annie Baxter Ave and turn right (north). Walk approximately 1.5 miles to 2506 Annie Baxter Ave. The Miracle of The Human Spirit will be on your left. There are no costs associated with this final approach.

  • Biking

    If you have access to a bike, start at the Joplin City Hall located at 602 S. Main St. Head south on Main St, then take a left onto 5th St. Follow 5th St east until you reach Annie Baxter Ave. Turn right and continue biking north on Annie Baxter Ave for approximately 1.5 miles. You will see The Miracle of The Human Spirit on your left at 2506 Annie Baxter Ave. There are no costs associated with this final approach.

Unlock the Best of The Miracle of The Human Spirit

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Miracle of The Human Spirit

The Miracle of The Human Spirit, also known as the Volunteer Tribute, is a moving memorial located in Cunningham Park in Joplin, Missouri. It honors the countless volunteers who came to Joplin's aid after the EF5 tornado that struck on May 22, 2011. The tornado left a path of destruction one mile wide and six miles long, causing immense devastation and loss. The memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Designed and created by students from Drury University's Hammons School of Architecture, the tribute embodies the volunteers' determination through symbolic elements. These include four rippling garden walls representing Joplin's ongoing rescue, recovery, demolition, and rebirth. Bronzed artifacts, a mosaic of remnants, and a volunteer statue further commemorate the volunteers' unprecedented response. Visitors can walk through the memorial, reflect on the events of 2011, and appreciate the outpouring of support that helped Joplin rebuild. Cunningham Park also features other memorials related to the tornado, including a plaque memorializing the lives lost and trees planted in their honor.

Popular Experiences near The Miracle of The Human Spirit

Popular Hotels near The Miracle of The Human Spirit

Select Currency