“The dogwood tree is known for its reslience. It’s one of the first trees to bloom in the springtime, often when the temperatures are still cold, and the ground is still hard. And I thought that was so representative of our victims, who, in the midst of their fear, and their tragedy, and their pain, reach out and tell someone, “This is what happened to me.” - Theresa Kenney
Probation and Parole hosted a candlelight vigil at the Joplin Courts Building on April 22, 2026. The ceremony featured several speakers from the community recognizing the importance of our efforts to support victims of crime. As part of the ceremony, community members planted a dogwood tree in front of the courthouse and tied orange and blue ribbons on the tree to show support for the noble mission.
