White House Author

Debbie Whittlesey is extensively involved with relief and rebuilding efforts in Joplin, Mo., following the devastating F-5 tornado in May of 2011. A resident of nearby Lebanon, Mo., Lions in Whittlesey’s region quickly mobilized to provide hundreds of energy packs containing fitness water, trail mix and energy bars. Lions drove around the area handing out food, work gloves and critical supplies in the days following. Her club, district and state continues fundraising for the cause, recently planting 200 trees and working to rebuild the lives of Joplin residents.