For its 18th Anniversary Edition, themed “There’s No Place Like Home,” L•O PROFILE proudly presents its 6th Annual Ambassadors of Hope. Nominated by the Lake community, these honorees are drawn from a place of extremely generous giving and, most of all, determined individuals whose optimism, resilience, and spirit lift others. Their stories, shaped by both challenges and triumphs, shine as beacons, reminding us that with perseverance and positivity, the light will always lead the Lake forward and illuminate the path for others to follow.
Laura Atkinson
I am honored to nomiated Laura as an Ambassador of Hope for our community. When I entrusted Laura Atkinson to take over leadership of The Changing Table Diaper Bank,
the organization was growing quickly but was still in its infancy, with countless challenges ahead. Stepping into such a demanding role required not only courage but a deep commitment to service.
From the very start, Laura embraced this mission with grace and determination. She brought fresh ideas and a steady hand, guiding the diaper bank through complex logistics and unprecedented demand. Her ability to inspire volunteers, build partnerships, and secure critical resources has transformed The Changing Table into a cornerstone of support for families in need.
Under her leadership, the diaper bank has grown more impactful than I could have ever imagined. What was once a small operation has evolved into a vibrant, sustainable program that reaches countless children and caregivers. Yet beyond the measurable success, it is her compassion and genuine love for her community that set her apart.
Watching Laura lead has been one of the great joys of my life. She has honored the original vision while expanding it in ways that will have lasting effects on our region. Her work embodies hope in action, showing what is possible when someone dedicates their talents to uplifting others.
Laura is the very definition of an Ambassador of Hope. Since the age of nine, standing beside his father Richard, founder of Bryant Auction in 1967, Rick learned the power of making people feel good about themselves. His father taught him, “If you can, you should,” a principle Rick has lived by ever since.
– Nominated and Written by Jessica Rozier, The Changing Table, Founder
Rick Bryant
By thirteen, Rick had already made history as the youngest auctioneer in Iowa. However, his talents extend far beyond the chant. He connects with people, builds confidence, and utilizes
humor and recognition to engage every audience. Whether raising money for charity or simply lifting someone’s spirits, Rick has a rare gift for making others feel seen.
His leadership helped shape his hometown of Keokuk, Iowa. He established the city’s first ambulance service, served as a police officer and firefighter, and led impactful initiatives such as “We Love Keokuk,” “Cop with a Mop,” and the Police Bike Patrol.
When diagnosed with colon cancer, Rick faced the unknown with grace and grit. He stayed positive, offering encouragement to the very nurses and doctors caring for him. He openly shared
his journey, from surgery to his decision to forgo chemotherapy, in hopes of giving others strength and perspective.
Now blessed to be cancer-free, Rick continues to serve with purpose. Each year, he supports over 30 charities, helping to raise millions. He shows up for his community, and most importantly, for his children, Dylan and Danyale. His perseverance, compassion, and emotional intelligence continue to touch countless lives.
Rick understands the true secret to connection: make people feel valued. His legacy of service, love, and unwavering presence will never fade.
– Nominated and Written by Angie Schejbal and kids
Phylicia Faye Carson
Have you ever met someone who immediately reminded you of family and radiated sunshine? That was my friend and colleague Phylicia Faye Carson. Instantly after meeting her, I felt like I had known her my entire life, but I was not the only one. Many of us were blessed by her presence in our lives, regardless of the time we spent with her.
Phylicia was hired by our agency, the Osage Beach Police Department, in June of 2023. She officially began her first shift as a police officer on September 15, 2023, following her graduation from the Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI) in Columbia, MO, the previous day. Phylicia could not be missed. She had a vibrant and caring nature, an exuberant smile, and a sincere interest in helping others. Her questions were endless, and she asked them so she could understand what she needed to do in every aspect of her job. She wanted to genuinely do her best. Her nature enabled her to form many unique bonds not only with her colleagues but also with the citizens. Phylicia did not know a stranger. She treated everyone with respect and fairness and did for others without expecting anything
in return. She wanted to treat people as she wanted to be treated. She didn’t just make people believe they were being heard; they indeed were being heard. She listened attentively, gave advice, and provided help. She helped victims of abuse, suicidal subjects, intoxicated drivers, and during times of family calamities, amongst others. The list of things she did to help others was endless. She was limitless!
Unfortunately, if you haven’t noticed, I express myself in the past tense. That is because, as of August 31, 2024, Phylicia ceased to be with us; not by her choice, but because God had another purpose for her. Phylicia made the ultimate sacrifice when she perished following a vehicle pursuit and left behind a beautiful family with six kids who are her in every inch of their existence, so that we can carry on the work she started. May we be that beacon of hope and positive change within our community, just as Phylicia was. Let’s uplift people, spread joy, and a sense of comfort and familiarity to continue to light the way.
– Nominated by members of the Osage Beach Police Department: Pete Leyva, Corporal and Dililexie Morley, 911 Dispatch Supervisor. Written by Dililexie Morley.
Natalie Couch
Natalie Couch Executive Director of Lake Area Industries (LAI), exemplifies what it means to be an Ambassador of Hope. Her leadership, heart, and advocacy make her an unstoppable force in our community and a true champion for individuals with disabilities.
Natalie is deeply committed to promoting and protecting the mission of LAI. She works tirelessly to ensure individuals with disabilities have choices, especially when
it comes to meaningful employment at sheltered workshops like LAI. She not only builds opportunities locally but also fiercely defends the rights of her employees at the state and national levels.
Whether she’s prospecting new work alongside her team or standing with them at the Missouri State Capitol or in Washington, D.C., Natalie never stops advocating. Her passion played a key role in a recent federal decision that preserved Section 14(c) of
the Fair Labor Standards Act, a change she called a “monumental victory” for LAI and similar organizations.
Natalie is more than a director. She’s a voice for those who often go unheard. Her work brings light, choice, and dignity to individuals across the Lake of the Ozarks. She embodies hope, not just in words, but through relentless action.
For her passion, impact, and unwavering commitment, Natalie is truly deserving of the Ambassador of Hope recognition.
– Nominated and Written by Tiffany Maasen, Past Executive Director, Lake Area Industries
Drew Hankinson
At just 16 years old, Drew Hankinson exemplifies resilience, generosity, and the spirit of community that defines the Lake of the Ozarks. Born with muscular dystrophy, Drew had a dream that many teenagers share: the desire to live independently. But even that dream required a specially modified vehicle and driver’s training, with costs totaling more than $50,000—an amount well beyond what his family could afford.
When Drew shared his wish with his local chapter of the Dream Factory, the organization was compelled with overwhelming enthusiasm. They connected with the Foundation of the Lake’s annual Champagne Campaign fundraiser to assist Drew in reaching his goal. A fundraising effort to help Drew ensued in 2023, resulting in a community-raised fund of nearly $13,000, enough to fund all necessary modifications. This life-changing support gave Drew the key to his dream of independence. Drew is now driving with his special modifications and has his father and uncle working with Mid Coast Customs & Mobility to install and service his adapted vehicle.
But Drew is also a leader and active contributor to his community. A devout individual, he participates in the A+ Program and is enrolled in honors, his church choir, and class projects. At St. Patrick Catholic Church, Drew faithfully serves as an altar server and volunteer with the Knights of Columbus, assisting at the fish bake and pancake breakfasts. He is also a member of the local Volunteer Program at Lake Regional Hospital, where he encourages the facilities staff and supports departments. His work supports his community’s ongoing needs.
Drew Hankinson is more than a young man who overcame challenges. He is a beacon of hope, service, and quiet strength.
– Nominated and Written by Carol Oliver, The Dream Factory, Board Member
Lynda Hartwick
Lynda Hartwick embodies service, patriotism, and tireless dedication to honoring those who served. A member of the Lake of the Ozarks Marine Corps League Auxiliary #429, she moved to the Lake in 2005, determined to ensure veterans are never forgotten.
Through her Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Chapter, Lynda participated in Wreaths Across America, placing wreaths at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. But her work for veterans in her local community was even broader. She spearheaded bringing the program to the Lake, now one of Missouri’s few certified ceremonies including Lake Memorial Garden, Hedges-Osage, Allee, and soon St. Patrick in Laurie.
Lynda helps certify ceremonies, coordinates and documents volunteer groups, recruits workers, plans ceremonies, designs graphics, and raises nearly $10,000 annually. In 2023, 905 veterans were honored at six Lake memorials. Lynda also drives her 1943 Marine Corps Jeep in Lake parades and helps promote local observances.
Lynda’s service includes a career as a St. Louis County police evidence and copying tech and a handwriting expert. She has held local, state, and national offices in the Marine Corps Auxiliary League and continues to lead by example.
Her tireless commitment to veterans, community service, and patriotic mission make Lynda Hartwick a true Ambassador of Hope.
– Nominated & Written by Sue Ross, Marine Corps League Auxiliary #429 President
Michael Jackson
Michael “Mikey” Jackson is the personification of resilience, strength, and community spirit. He moved to the Lake of the Ozarks in 2018 from his hometown of Florence, Kansas, and quickly became a familiar face. The birth of Magic Dragon Functional Fitness, the Dog Days, and the Lake’s fitness energy was contagious, and his passion for fitness grew further as he earned his Certified Trainer Certification in 2021. His clients were so pleased with his evolution that WODAPALOOZA CrossFit’s growth continued, and “Mikey” has since proudly opened his own business, Magic Dragon Functional Fitness, in Osage Beach.
Mikey’s greatest test came on August 11, 2021. After a drunk driver, who was texting, hit him head-on at 60 mph, his life changed forever. He was airlifted by helicopter to a trauma center, where doctors told his family to prepare for the worst. He spent a week in a coma, sustained two broken legs, and had to learn to walk again. But Mikey kept his faith.
And he did. After months of grueling time (10+ hours daily), he was discharged after 100 days. Only months after that, he resumed his journey through hope, perseverance, and healing in his reopened gym. “Mikey,” Mikey J., and DJ Mikey J.—owner of Magic Dragon Functional Fitness, GM of Tirebiters, and DJ at Dog Days every Saturday—live as local champions, and there’s no one more deserving of that title.
– Nominated and Written by Tyler Patterson, Dog Days Bar & Grill, General Manager
Glenn Jourdon
Glenn Jourdon lived a life marked by compassion, wisdom, and an unwavering belief in the power of community. His generous heart touched countless lives, and his impact will continue to ripple through the many organizations and people he supported so selflessly.
Glenn’s dedication helped transform the Special Learning Center in Jefferson City, where his support was instrumental in building a new wing of classrooms and offices, creating a safe and nurturing environment for children with special needs to learn, grow, and thrive. He also played a pivotal role in the new Boys and Girls Club buildings project, helping to create a haven for local youth to discover their potential and feel empowered.
From 1977–2001, Glenn served and guided on the Board of Directors for the Tri-County YMCA of the Ozarks. His leadership, wisdom, and generosity shaped the YMCA as it remains today. In 2007, the YMCA honored Glenn by renaming its newly rebuilt facility the Glenn Jourdon Fitness Center, a fitting tribute to a man who believed deeply in health, wellness, and community.
In retirement, Glenn embraced life at the Lake of the Ozarks. Known as an avid storyteller, he loved to share every adventure and connect deeply to people he met through warmth and his huge heart. He was a member of Elks Lodge #513, the Shady Gators Dart League, and the legendary Donkey’s Gaming Club. He embraced humor in life, but there is no question of how deeply serious he was about service. Whether organizing books or mentoring at the deck, Glenn’s presence made life truly brighter.
Glenn Jourdon passed away on March 18, 2025, at the age of 84. He created a legacy of joyful kindness, love, and respect that will be sculpted in all who knew him. He will be missed beyond words and remembered with deep gratitude and love.
– Nominated and Written by Ben Josiah, Tri-County YMCA of the Ozarks, CEO
Nicki Keeth
At School of the Osage Middle School, Nicki Keeth is more than a special education teacher. She’s a difference-maker. With heart, humor, and endless dedication, Mrs. Keeth has created an environment where every student is known, valued, and empowered to grow and thrive. Her work goes far beyond the lesson plans, textbooks, and test scores; it reaches into each child’s confidence and self-worth, helping them build resilience they can carry far beyond the classroom.
After receiving a teacher purchase SOYO love title this past fall, Mrs. Keeth works to prepare drinks and meals, and to interact with staff, while ensuring valuable academic, social, and vocational opportunities. While the coffee is hot, it also remains an outlet for students that gives them purpose—helping each student learn to be engaged and valued members, learning every step and every smile.
Mrs. Keeth’s enthusiasm is contagious and transforms the traditional school environment into a place where hope, joy, and connection thrive daily. She always places her heart at the center, both for students and for the faculty. Her dedication is shown in every detail—from personalized lessons to planning real-world experiences, such as SOYO and the Dog Days 5K.
Her big compassion, motivation, and the lasting impact she makes on students and staff alike, Nicki Keeth is truly an Ambassador of Hope and someone the Lake community should know.
– Nominated and Written by Kaylee Moser, School of the Osage, Director of Communications
Alison Martin
Alison Martin is a Champion for Children in the Lake Community. She has devoted her life to helping children grow, learn, and thrive. While pursuing her master’s degree in early childhood education, she played a key role in the early childhood committee for the Community Foundation of the Lake during its formative years, laying a foundation for future impact in the community she deeply cares for.
In 2015, Alison took the helm of Lake Area Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). At that time, the program offered only a traditional community-based mentoring program and a “Lunch Buddies” program at School of the Osage, where mentors would meet with elementary lunch buddies once a week. But under Alison’s leadership, BBBS has grown into something more—a beacon of hope for youth across the Lake area.
She expanded the program into Camdenton Schools, launching a “Reading Buddies” initiative where volunteers read one-on-one with kindergarteners. And beginning this fall, Camdenton will also offer a full “Lunch Buddies” program.
Alison’s passion doesn’t stop at programming. She works tirelessly to secure funding, helping organize partnerships, and closely managing the annual benefit concert at Shorty Pants Lounge, followed by BBBS’ biggest fundraiser, the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout.
Her dedication extends beyond BBBS. Alison is a familiar face in the community, volunteering with Kiwanis for the Duck Drop golf tournament and serving the duck costume, a role joyfully passed on to her daughter, Emily Bond, and serving as President of the Camdenton R-III Schools District Foundation.
With a heart for service and a vision for a brighter future, Alison Martin continues to make an unforgettable difference in the lives of children and families at the Lake of the Ozarks.
– Nominated and Written by Scottie Martin, Scott’s Concrete, spouse
Alysia Maschino
Alysia Maschino’s story is one of quiet strength and extraordinary perseverance. At just nine years old, she lost her father after an extended battle with cancer, an unimaginable loss that forever changed her worldview. Rather than letting grief consume her, Alysia made a promise to live her best kind of life, remaining full in heart to give the chance to serve others.
She went on to earn a master’s degree and in 2009, joined G&G Marina. Working her way up to Vice President and co-owner, she created a positive work environment grounded in respect, gratitude, and hard work. Those reflections then fueled her next mission of giving back. She has completed runs of up to 31 miles and finished a 100-mile triathlon to raise money for multiple charities—achievements that are evidence of both her determination and her heart for service.
After her husband suffered a massive heart attack in 2020, Alysia began sharing his ongoing story to bring messages for family health. G&G Marina was inspired to get involved, creating FundRuns, a nonprofit founded by Alysia in 2020.
Over the last 5 years, FundRuns, a 501(c)(3) organization, has raised more than $250,000 for the Children’s Learning Center, Kids Harbor, and other local causes. The organization has raised more than $25,000 for the Camdenton School District’s new playground at the high school.
Alysia’s journey is a reminder that even when faced with loss, hope and love find a way. She doesn’t just inspire; she empowers others to keep going, live deeply, and love fully.
– Nominated and Written by Scott Page, Director of Operations, Lynda MARC & Sally Susan G&G Marina; Chief Operating Officer, FundRuns
Aubree Matthews
Aubree’s journey began on February 3 during her annual eye exam. She had been struggling to read and often mixed words due to the TVI. Despite new prescriptions, her vision remained at 20/1500, prompting a visit to a specialist and an unforeseen journey.
After several appointments, doctors discovered that Aubree had a brain tumor, learning the family would undergo chemo. Their fun-loving, smart, nine-year-old, soccer-loving girl was diagnosed with optic glioma brain tumors. She was taken quickly to Children’s Mercy Kansas City, where surgery was not an option because it could impact vital brain functions and damage her vision. She received regular infusions of chemotherapy and other treatments.
On February 9, Aubree underwent an MRI of her brain and spine. While her bravery and courage inspired physicians, this next step for family revealed that her tumor had grown. The only path was the fight ahead—they met those challenges with faith. Aubree received and started chemotherapy as soon as possible. Active medical plans called for monthly treatments, which created months of hope in a year.
On March 6, doctors shared that her past protocol had begun to show some results, decreasing the size of the tumor. As the family learned, her identity revealed resilience in a big smile that hadn’t faded, knowing that her chemotherapy continued, her goal is to shrink the tumor further.
Despite everything, Aubree remains incredibly smart, determined, and kind. Even facing this challenging time, she volunteered to help raise funds at Pass it on Purpose for her friends at the Children’s Learning Center. Her joy has been matched by courage and, above all, compassion in her efforts to help others.
– Nominated and Written by Adrienne Anderson, Children’s Learning Center, Executive Director
Ashleigh Robinson
Throughout the nine-month battle with her daughter Vivian’s cancer, Ashleigh truly exemplified the meaning of bravery and strength. In the face of unimaginable challenges, she stood tall, unwavering in her determination to create moments of joy amidst the chaos. I often found myself in awe of her resilience, as she faced each day with a fierce spirit that inspired everyone around her.
Ashleigh navigated the lows with grace, supporting Vivian through countless treatments, many miles away from home. Despite the heaviness that surrounded them, she found ways to infuse laughter and love into their lives, reminding us all of the power of hope. Whether it was organizing small family outings or creating art projects at home or at the Ronald McDonald House, Ashleigh always prioritized making cherished memories, determined to fill their days with light.
There were moments of triumph, too, where Ashleigh’s unwavering positivity shone through. Celebrating even the smallest victories, she created an atmosphere of strength that uplifted Vivian and the entire family. Her courage was palpable, and it inspired not just her family but everyone who witnessed their journey. Their story reached beyond our community, and the support they received was much appreciated.
Through this battle, Ashleigh taught us the importance of love, resilience, and the beauty of cherishing every moment. She faced each obstacle head-on, and in doing so, she became a beacon of hope for others.
As she and her family navigate the next phase of their life without their Vivian, she is determined to make the world a better place in Vivi’s name—being an advocate for families who are walking a similar journey and helping provide support however they need it.
Her strength and courage in the darkest of times were nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an indelible mark on all of our hearts.
– Nominated and Written by Maggie Brunsize, Friend of Robinson Family