Hope Changes Everything #StandleyStrong
We’ve all met someone who prefers to remain in the shadows, giving their whole heart without the need for recognition; people who have touched our lives through acts of kindness and generosity made without a hint of expectation. For people like this, “being noticed” is never the intent.
That is why this month DiscoverAdel.com is sharing a different kind of story. This month, we are asking our community of friends, family, and neighbors for your support in honor of two special people who would never ask for themselves.
Some of you may know John and Lorinda Standley, owners of Adel Auto Parts. If you are lucky enough to know this dynamic couple, you know how much they love Adel. For the past 18 years, they have made this town their home while striving to be unnoticed for their good deeds. The NAPA affiliate located on the downtown square buzzes with community activity each day. The windows of the store are often covered with local flyers for events supporting fellow business owners and organizations. When the community calls for volunteers, both John and Lorinda continue to help by offering their time, donations, support, and good humor. Now, it is time for us to give back.
In December 2017, Lorinda was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. She has stoically endured chemotherapy treatments, now an indefinite plan.
Not one to complain, Lorinda participates in testing through Des Moines Mercy and the Mayo Clinic, hoping to help other families faced with similar hardships and difficulties. Even now, Lorinda chooses to help others every way she can.
In June, the couple celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary and in all that time has never asked for help.
In truth, they are not the ones asking now. It is John and Lorinda’s family, friends, and employees who have taken on this task and are asking the Adel community to encourage, support and give back to Lorinda the resources she needs in her fight to conquer cancer.
“Lorinda has such a big heart; she loves people. She always does for others. She would rather be in the background. With Lorinda, there will always be somebody else first, she will always be last, always.” Randy Judge, Organizer
“Here’s an example of a couple that are super supporters and helpers of the community and now it’s time to help them. Here is a good, solid American lady who doesn’t want to be recognized or be out front.” Van VanBuren, Organizer
Eat, Drink, and Be Giving
Please join us July 26th at Country Lane Lodge in Adel for an eventful night of fun and fundraising for John and Lorinda Standley.
The evening will start with a silent auction from 5-7:30 pm, with a live auction for big ticket items, starting at 7:30 pm.
Our MC for the night will be Jason Zeliadt of NAPA, a lively presenter known for his ability to keep events fun while reminding everyone of the reason for being there.
Guests will receive a numbered wristband when they arrive, allowing for anonymous bids during the silent auction.
Organizers have gathered more than 35 items to date for both auctions including a large NAPA tool box (retails for over $1,000+) and a set of 3 games at Wells Fargo Arena, which include: one 2020 Iowa Barnstormers home game, one 2020 Iowa Wolves home game, and one 2020 Iowa Wild home game. The package comes with 4 tickets in a box suite and 2 VIP parking passes. *does not include food or beverage. The group will continue to accept donations for the live and silent auction until July 14th.
The fundraising benefit will also have live music and entertainment by The Black Hat Heroes, playing songs you want to hear, but don’t hear every day.
Dinner will be served that night from 6-7:30 pm, featuring mouthwatering Texas-style BBQ and sides catered by Kue’d Smokehouse, winners of TLC’s 2010 “BBQ Pit Masters” Championship. Meal tickets are $10. In addition, Country Lane Lodge will offer a cash bar.
Motivational tee shirts will also be on sale for $15, sporting the phrase “Hope Changes Everything #StandleyStrong”.
Tee shirts not only spread the word about the Standley Benefit, but they also help John and Lorinda see, day in and day out, how many care for them in our community.
Guests are invited to spread the word far and wide, making sure all are welcome to share in this outpouring of support.
Organizers have partnered with the Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive Hotel for guest rooms and shuttle service the night of the benefit. To book the discounted rate, please call the hotel directly at (515) 223-4700 and ask for the “Standley Benefit” block. You can also book online.
“People can come and go as they please, roam around the beautiful grounds, and share in a fun night. The goal is to create a fun atmosphere where people can enjoy themselves, help raise money for my parents and, most importantly, come and support my mom.” Chris Standley, Son & Standley Benefit organizer.
For Lorinda, the July 26th benefit is also about raising funds for Cancer.org, a valuable resource for the Standley’s and those fighting cancer. Donations to the American Cancer Society are used to fund breakthrough research, free rides to treatment, free places to stay near hospitals, and other critical patient services.
As the only doctor approved cancer website, many have turned to the organization for support, research, and more in their times of need. Because John and Lorinda will always put others before themselves, a portion of the proceeds from the benefit will be donated to help others fight the good fight.
Mark your calendars for the Standley Benefit July 26th at Country Lane Lodge in Adel. If you are unable to attend and would like to donate, please stop by any Wells Fargo Bank location and reference the “Standley Benefit.” Or, you can donate via the Zelle App using our mobile device at StandleyStrong@gmail.com.