Sound of Friendship - Compeer - Olivia C
The Compeer Program of Johnson County Iowa is all about something pretty simple but incredibly powerful: friendship. The local nonprofit matches trained community volunteers with adults who are receiving mental health treatment. These volunteers help reduce isolation and build real, lasting connections through everyday activities; like grabbing coffee, going for walks, or attending community events with them. One of the biggest ways to celebrate and support the Compeer mission each year is through their Sound of Friendship Concert and Dessert Reception. In 2025 the original date was cancelled, but the event returned later in the year, as the "Redux" concert, hosted by St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Iowa City. Everyone in attendance enjoyed music, followed by a relaxed dessert reception where guests could mingle and connect. The concert brings together local performers, supporters, volunteers, and participants for a warm, welcoming night that highlights the impact of simple human connection while raising funds to keep Compeer's one-to-one friendship matches going strong. It's more than just a concert, it's a reminder that sometimes the best support we can offer someone is showing up, spending time, and being a friend. We are proud to support this event and others like it!
Habitat for Humanity - Recycle Gala - Olivia C
Through the KCRG-TV9 "Show You Care" program, Dave Wright Nissan Subaru has the pleasure of supporting local events with good causes. One of them, hosted for the Habitat for Humanity, was a unique fundraiser called the Recycle Gala. The highlight of the night is a runway show featuring outfits made entirely from recycled and repurposed materials. Local designers, businesses, and community members step up to create "trashion" looks that are imaginative, unexpected, and surprisingly stylish. It's a celebration of thinking outside the box, while also keeping materials out of landfills. The evening includes music, drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and a live auction. It's not your typical black-tie gala, it's creative, energetic, and all about bringing people together for something meaningful. Most importantly, the Recycle Gala supports the mission of Habitat for Humanity. Habitat works to bring people together to build homes and support the community. They partner with local families who need affordable housing, helping them achieve stability and independence through homeownership. With the help of volunteers, donors, and community partners, Habitat builds safe, decent homes and offers affordable mortgage options so families can invest in their futures. The funds raised at the Recycle Gala go directly toward building and repairing homes for hardworking families in our area. Every ticket purchased, every auction bid, and every sponsorship helps create opportunities for local families to have a safe place to call home. The Recycle Gala is a celebration of community creativity and generosity. It's a chance to support sustainability, enjoy a unique fashion show, and be part of something that has a lasting impact. We are proud to support this event and others like it!
Subaru Loves to Help - Sydney W
The Boys & Girls Club of the Corridor provides a safe space, warm meals, and after school support for hundreds of children in our community. The Boys & Girls Club of the Corridor provides over 42,000 warm meals each year to children in need. Of those children, around 70% of them are at or below the poverty line. The Boys & Girls Club of the Corridor provides so much for these kids, but there is just no way they can do it all. They need help, support, and volunteers from the community to continue serving these children. Through the Subaru Loves to Help initiative, we were able to donate 200 pairs of shoes and 400 pairs of socks to children who attend the Boys & Girls Club. Many of these kids were previously wearing shoes multiple sizes too small, or in some cases, too big. Shoes that actually fit a child is so important and has a real impact on them. Shoes that cause pain or discomfort can create real distractions in school that may feel out of their control. It also leads them to participate less in physical activity for many reasons. Our partnership with Subaru Loves to Help benefits not only those children, but gives their families one less thing to worry about financially.
PAWS & More - PAWsgiving - Olivia C
Earlier this month, the PAWS & More Animal Shelter (also known as the Washington County Humane Society) hosted its 2025 PAWSgiving event at Dallmeyer Hall in the Washington County Fairgrounds. Guests enjoyed a hearty dinner, local live music, and a spirited auction. The event offered an intimate, community-centered atmosphere, while raising essential funds to equip the shelters new facility. Though construction of the building is already covered, proceeds from PAWSgiving will help furnish and equip the space for the next phase of its mission; to provide a safe, welcoming, and fully functional environment for animals in need, and the people who care for them. Beyond fundraising, the event shined a light on PAWS & Mores ongoing initiatives, including its foster and adoption programs, pet reunification services, spay and neuter advocacy, and community education efforts aimed at promoting responsible pet ownership. These programs are vital in reducing overpopulation, preventing neglect, and strengthening the bond between people and animals. Every dollar raised through PAWSgiving directly supports these goals; and helps to ensure the shelter can continue to provide lifesaving medical care and temporary housing for lost and abandoned pets, while also expanding their outreach programs that teach compassion and respect for animals. PAWSgiving served as a celebration of progress, gratitude, and shared purpose and demonstrated how a small community working together can make a lasting difference for animals who need it most. We are happy to support events like this one!
The GreenState Foundation's Financial Education Open - Olivia C
The GreenState Foundation is a charitable organization under GreenState Credit Union. Its mission is focused on financial education, affordable housing, and childrens health. The Foundation is tackling the root causes of economic instability and building stronger communities across Iowa and beyond. Earlier this month, they hosted their Financial Education Open! Attendees golfed, socialized, and enjoyed dinner while supporting the GreenState Foundation. All proceeds from this event benefitted the Foundations work to support our community in a variety of ways. Financial education is at the heart of their work. Their programs help individuals and families master budgeting, saving, and credit, while reshaping how people think and talk about money. The goal is to equip people with the tools they need for lifelong financial wellness. Housing is another major focus. GreenState has pledged $1 billion in mortgage lending over the next decade to help close the racial homeownership gap in the Midwest. The Foundation complements this commitment with direct support, awarding nearly $1 million in down payment assistance grants, already helping almost 240 families achieve homeownership. The Foundation also supports programs focused on childrens health, and addresses both their physical and mental well-being. By investing in schools and youth services, it ensures that children have a healthier start and a better chance at future success. In just a few years, the GreenState Foundation has helped families buy homes, funded essential school programs, supported childrens health initiatives, and invested millions into building a stronger future. Its combination of large-scale commitments, research-driven decisions, and deep community partnership set it apart, proving that when giving is intentional and strategic, it can change lives. We are proud to support this event and others like it!
The Five Seasons Stand Down - Olivia C
The Five Seasons Stand Down is an event hosted annually at the Veterans Memorial Stadium, which brings together over 70 organizations to offer a variety of services to those facing housing insecurity. Local Veterans organizations, government agencies, and community advocates come together to help those facing housing insecurity through a variety of services. Housing assistance, health screenings, mental health and substance abuse support, legal aid, employment services, and benefits counseling are offered to all attendees. This annual event was originally created with a focus on veterans, but has since grown to include non-veterans to try and tackle a wider homelessness crisis in the community. Hundreds of attendees come to engage directly with multiple agencies all in one place. This makes the resources more easily accessible for those who may otherwise struggle with barriers such as a lack of transportation and lack of relevant information regarding their personal living situations. The event offers direct aid and ongoing support through collaborative efforts of community members. The purpose is to raise awareness about veteran and civilian homelessness, and encourage those in the area to stay engaged with solutions throughout the year. The Five Seasons Stand Down continues to serve as a lifeline, offering dignity, hope, and a path forward to some of the communitys most vulnerable residents. We are proud to support this event and others like it!
Dave Wright Subaru gifts Love and Hope to cancer patients - Skyler J
On Thursday, June 19, 2025, Dave Wright Subaru teamed up with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) Lower Plains Region to deliver a heartfelt donation of 80 blankets and 30 patient care kits to the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center in Cedar Rapids, IA. Each gift was accompanied by a personalized message of hope written by the customers and staff at Dave Wright Subaru. The Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center staff were very grateful to receive these gifts, and they are excited to distribute them to their patients. A huge thank you to everyone at Dave Wright Subaru and the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center for their amazing support of the LLS mission to cure blood cancers and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
The Great Rubber Duck Splash - Olivia C
Earlier this month, North Star Community Services hosted their 4th annual Great Rubber Duck Splash! Following the morning Duck Dash 5K and Kid's Fun Run, all participants gathered at The Falls Aquatic Center for the main event. At the pool, thousands of rubber ducks were dumped at The Falls Aquatic Center in Cedar Falls for a lazy river race! Each participant could adopt a rubber duck for just $5, or adopt multiples for higher chances of winning. The first 3 rubber ducks across the finish line awarded their adoptive "parents" a cash prize! There were also plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as balloon art, face painting, games and swimming to keep everyone engaged throughout the day. All proceeds of the Great Rubber Duck Splash, the morning Duck Dash 5K, and Kids Fun Run supported the North Star mission. Their programs include adult day services, supported community living, employment support, and social enrichment opportunities that promote independence, inclusion, and personal growth. Through programs like these, they support and empower people with disabilities to live meaningful, connected, and productive lives. We are proud to support this event and others like it!
Faj Squad 5K - Olivia C
The annual Faj Squad 5K is hosted by the Michael W. Oglesby Foundation in Dubuque, Iowa. It brings together runners, walkers, families, and cancer survivors to raise awareness and funds in the fight against pancreatic cancer. Hosted earlier in the month, the event offered a welcoming, high-energy atmosphere for people of all ages and fitness levels. The Faj Squad 5K is a celebration of resilience, hope, and community. Proceeds directly support patient services, awareness campaigns, and critical research through the Foundations partnership with the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, where scientists are working toward early detection and better treatments for pancreatic cancer. Participants of this event got to take part in a timed race and a community walk, heard from guest speakers, got some raffle prizes, and listened to lively music. They also supported a great cause while connecting with others who have been impacted by cancer, whether as survivors, caregivers, or advocates. We are proud to support events like this one!
Zach Johnson Foundation Classic 2025 - Olivia C
Last month, The Zach Johnson Foundation hosted their annual charity golf outing! This event helps to support a local youth program called Kids on Course. This event featured Zach Johnson, golf champion and Cedar Rapids native, alongside a few other sports stars with Iowa ties. The event brought the community together for a day of golf, fun, and giving back; all to support educational equity in his hometown. The Zach Johnson Foundations flagship program, Kids on Course, partners with the Cedar Rapids Community School District. The program works directly with students and families in Cedar Rapids to remove barriers to academic success. The program provides year-round support, which includes after school tutoring, summer learning programs, activities, mentorship, and college readiness support. Kids on Course is grounded in the belief that all children, regardless of their background, deserve a path to lifelong achievement. Since its launch in 2011, the program has helped thousands of Cedar Rapids students stay on track academically, improve attendance, and build skills that extend beyond the classroom. The Foundation Classic is a celebration of community and a commitment to creating real opportunities for local kids. With the continued support of fans, donors, and volunteers, the Zach Johnson Foundation continues to support the kids within our community. We are proud to support this event and others like it!
Dave Wright Subaru Supports Boys & Girls Clubs of the Corridor - Hoover Club - Joshua S
Imagine going without a coat, shoes, or even socks. For millions of children and adults experiencing homelessness and other urgent need situations across the country, even here in Hiawatha, this is a harsh reality. Helping others strengthens communities, which is why Dave Wright Subaru is partnering with Operation Warm®, a national nonprofit focused on connecting children with the resources they need to thrive. Through this partnership and other Subaru Loves to Help® efforts, Subaru and retailers like Dave Wright Subaru have helped nearly 900,000 children and adults in urgent need. On 02/07/2025, Dave Wright Subaru donated 204 shoes/socks to Boys & Girls Clubs of the Corridor - Hoover Club. These essential items not only help keep children protected, warm, and dry, it can have a significant impact on a child's mental and emotional well-being.
Cedar Valley Humane Society - Whine and Wags Gala - Olivia C
By means of the KCRG Show You Care program, Dave Wright Subaru has the pleasure to support and promote local events in the community. One of these recent events was the 15th annual Whine and Wags Gala! This is the largest fundraising event of the year for the Cedar Valley Humane Society. At The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, guests enjoyed a plated dinner, specialty drinks, and live music. Each person attending also had the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and wine pull. Several adoptable animals were also in attendance, bringing a heartwarming appearance and special touch to the nights activities. Support for this event makes adoption programs such as the Pets for Vets Cat Companions and Barn Cats possible. All proceeds from this event as well as other forms of generous donations support the Cedar Valley Humane Societys mission to care for and find homes for all animals in need. We are proud to support local events like this one!
Hope Blooms - Olivia C
As a member of the KCRG Show You Care program, Dave Wright Subaru has the opportunity to show its support for events impacting the members of our community. One recent event was the Hope Blooms fundraiser. Individuals and businesses came together to show that even the smallest gestures can make a big impact. The Hope Blooms Fundraiser wasnt just about flowers it was about resilience, compassion and care. Community members purchased daffodils, stuffed animals, and notecards either to keep for themselves, or to send as a bouquet of hope. These gifts were anonymously delivered to cancer patients undergoing treatment at local hospitals, clinics, and hospices. Approximately 2,000 bunches of daffodils were distributed across the community, nearly 450 bouquets were delivered to patients receiving care, around 400 stuffed animals were given to children impacted by cancer, and funds were raised to support the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center and its vital programs, including Gems of Hope. This year, over 2 million new cancer cases are projected nationwideand over 21,000 in Iowa alone. So, this outpouring of community support meant everything. Gems of Hope provides cancer patients and their families support and resources to inspire hope, creating the outlook that hope is always present in a cancer diagnosis. We are proud to promote this event and others like it!
Film Scene - Iowa Disability Film Festival - Olivia C
Through the KCRG Show You Care program, Dave Wright Subaru has the pleasure of promoting local events in the community with good causes. One such event was the Iowa Disability Film Festival. The festival, hosted by Iowa Citys FilmScene, was a celebration of films by and about people with disabilities, aiming to expand awareness, start dialogue, and promote diverse voices in the world of cinema. FilmScene is a nonprofit cinema organization dedicated to enhancing Iowa City through the presentation of film as art. This event was presented collaboratively by community partners and advocates. Through thoughtful programming, the festival offered opportunities to engage with the stories that reflect the experiences of individuals with a range of various disabilities. All screenings were designed to feature open captions, ASL interpretation, and descriptive audio so everyone could enjoy the films comfortably across a variety of circumstances and abilities. Beyond the screen, the festival invited meaningful conversations. Post-screening discussions, panels, and community events created a space for attendees to reflect, connect, and learn from one another. We are proud to support this event and others like it!
Iowa Farm Sanctuarys Inaugural Gala - Olivia C
Thanks to the KCRG-TV9 Show You Care program, Dave Wright Subaru has the opportunity to support local events with good causes. One of these events was the Iowa Farm Sanctuarys very first gala! This event was held at Wilsons Ciderhouse in Iowa City and kicked off with a cocktail hour. After some drinks, attendees were also treated to a gourmet vegan dinner. Later on in the night, there was a live art performance! The Iowa Farm Sanctuarys mission is to provide a safe haven for rescued farm animals in need of love and compassion. Through live and silent auctions, bidders were able to contribute to a good cause and support the functions of the sanctuary. Attendees also got the chance to hear about the rescue stories of the sanctuary and see why their work is so important. With over 140 rescued farm animals onsite, every dollar raised made a real difference. We are proud to support events like this one!

