The Kiwanis Club of Joplin, established in May 1922, holds the distinction of being the city's oldest civic service organization. As the third Kiwanis club in Missouri, following St. Louis and Kansas City, it has been a cornerstone of community service for over a century.

In its early years, the club undertook significant projects, such as raising $65,000 to furnish the new YMCA in 1922 and installing street lighting on Main Street following Prohibition. By 1923, they were actively involved in various community betterment initiatives, including supporting the construction of Freeman hospitals and organizing picnics for orphaned children.

Throughout its history, the Joplin Kiwanis Club has maintained a strong focus on youth and community service. They have supported the Boys and Girls Club since 1962 and have provided annual scholarships to Missouri Southern State University for the past two decades. The club also sponsors the Joplin Art Fest and organizes aSub-Headlinennual Christmas parties for children from low-income families.

In recognition of their long-standing commitment, the club honored 18 members with over 25 years of service, inducting them into the Kiwanis International Legion of Honor.

Today, the Kiwanis Club of Joplin continues its mission to provide safe and nurturing environments for local youth, embodying a century-long tradition of service and community engagement.