Carthage's Susan Wendleton has received the Senior Service Award from Missouri's Lieutenant Governor, David Wasinger. She's Carthage Nazarene's connection care pastor and one of the co-founders of Laugh and Lunch, a monthly gathering where senior citizens can socialize, drink tea, and eat lunch.
Wendleton is the only recipient of this award from Southwest Missouri. According to a press release announcing the recipients – the Senior Service Award recognizes individuals aged 60 or older who ‘exemplify the spirit of service’.
Susan says she is merely the honor recipient – the monthly luncheon helps and benefits so many people.
"I am inspired by my motivation to serve others well just based on Jesus' love for me and that gives me a lot of reason to love other people," she said.
She is energized by the reaction the event elicits from attendees. People often walk out the doors smiling and hugging her.
According to Susan, Lunch and Learn would not have existed without Dustin Ledford, the church's pastor at the time. He had the idea to create an outreach event for senior citizens.
Five years later, the event has grown to over 300 people. While the event originated at Carthage Nazarene, only about 30% of today’s participants are church members.
The program has had positive outcomes for both the volunteers and attendees. "Each month, we laugh and have a good time together," said Wendleton. Some attendees of the event come early just to visit.
Many of the guests are elderly who live alone or were recently widowed.
There have been positive impacts on both the community and older people, according to Wendleton.
"And we enjoy being able to see them kind of come out and enjoy community - which I think improves their health and their outlook. When they are around other people," she said.
The Laugh and Laugh occurs on the fourth Thursday of every month at Carthage Nazarene. It is free and volunteer-based and runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Copyright 2025 KRPS. To see more, visit Four States Public Radio.
