Waynesville, Mo. – Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) was honored by the Waynesville R-VI School District during the Board of Education meeting on July 20, 2026, where the organization received the Community Recognition Plaque for its commitment to supporting the health and well-being of local students and families.
The recognition celebrates COMC's partnership with the Waynesville R-VI School District in hosting Community Conversations on Preventing Substance Abuse for Waynesville Middle School and Waynesville High School students and their parents. These educational events provided families with valuable information and practical tools to help prevent substance abuse and encourage open, honest conversations about the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
Executive Director Kym Laube of Human Understanding Growth Services served as the featured speaker, sharing evidence-based strategies for prevention and empowering parents and caregivers to engage in meaningful discussions with their children.
"At COMC, we believe that healthy communities begin with education, collaboration, and prevention," said Interim CEO DawnElyn Schneider. "We are honored to partner with Waynesville R-VI School District to provide resources that strengthen families and help our youth make healthy choices. Receiving this recognition is a testament to the power of community partnerships."
Representing COMC at the Board of Education meeting were Interim CEO DawnElyn Schneider, Manager of Population Health and Network Development Morgan McClure, and Outreach and School-Based Services Supervisor Desirae Kelley.
COMC is proud to partner with local schools, organizations, and community leaders to expand access to health education, preventive services, and resources that improve the quality of life throughout the communities it serves.