(Atlantic) Steele McLaren was in a horrible accident in October of 2020 and suffered a severe traumatic brain injury. Today, Steele works full-time, lives independently, and is very independent. He has now created the Strong as Steele Foundation. This would not have been possible without the help and support from the individuals and businesses in our own community and the surrounding communities nationwide. This support enabled Steele to heal and recover through non-traditional medical plans and procedures that were not covered by insurance, and now allows him to give back.
The Strong As Steele Foundation a 501c3 organization, has been created to return favors we received. The Strong As Steele Foundation is dedicated to providing monetary donations to the communities that have supported us. In addition, our mission is to help relieve the burden of individuals facing similar medical and life challenges as our founder, Steele, by offering financial assistance and resources. In 2025, The Strong as Steele Foundations donated over $30,000 to several individuals who have faced life-altering circumstances, such as accidents, cancer, and illnesses. The foundation has also donated to local and county-wide fire departments.
The second fundraising event will take place on February 14, 2026, at the Atlantic Golf Country Club. The foundation is hosting 2 nd Annual Night of giving, which starts at 5:00 and will be as follows:
5:00 p.m. Cocktail
5:30 Dinner
6:30 Live auction
7:30 Magician
The cost to attend is $100 per person or $200 for a couple.
If you have any questions about the event or if you would like to attend, please contact Dustin McLaren at 712-249-2567 or Jess Ellis 712-254-0708. If you cannot make the event you can donate through the Venmo account or send your donation to the Strong As Steele Foundation, 1301 Poplar Street, Atlantic, IA 50022.
The Strong As Steele Foundation board consists of 7 members and a key supporter:
Steele McLaren, Chairman
Tom McLaren, President
Garrett McLaren, Vice President
Stacey Pellett, Treasurer
Jess Ellis, Secretary
Dustin McLaren, Member
Sheryl Dusenberry, Member
Sharon Crane, Key Supporter
Those wanting to know more about the Strong As Steele Foundation, please visit the Strong As Steele Foundation Facebook or contact Tom McLaren at 712-249-7120. You can also check out our website at https://strongassteelefoundation.godaddysites.com/
