April 16, 2024
WYNNE, Ark. – The Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience (ODR&R) has awarded Leanne Lovell of Wynne a 2024 Phoenix Award for Outstanding Contributions to Disaster Recovery by a Volunteer. Lovell was recognized for her instrumental role in leading recovery efforts after an EF3 tornado devastated the Wynne community on March 31, 2023.“This year’s honorees represent the power of determination and adaptability. Their journey exemplifies resilience, inspiring us all,” said ODR&R Associate Administrator Franciso Sanchez Jr. “As SBA transforms its disaster assistance program by opening new paths for governors to secure recovery resources and working with local leaders to lead from the ground up, heroes like these represent the strong partnerships we are building to make communities more resilient.”Lovell, a 30-year resident of Wynne, founded the nonprofit organization Wynne Relief and Recovery to express her immense gratitude to the community. During tornado recovery efforts, Lovell established a 21,000-foot distribution center where she managed over 200 volunteers daily, bringing in doctors and counselors to address the medical and mental health needs of disaster survivors. Lovell also worked to disseminate information from her social media accounts about federal recovery efforts, conducted multiple interviews with local radio stations, and helped secure temporary housing for families. She was recognized as the 2023 Cross County Citizen of the Year.“The State of Arkansas owes a huge thank you to citizens like Leanne Lovell,” said Arkansas Division of Emergency Management Director A.J. Gary. “Her unwavering commitment to helping her community rebuild is exactly the type of response Arkansans are known for when disaster strikes.”