Ashley Wilde:
Executive Assistant, Rusty Drewing Automotive
Ashley Wilde has been described as the backbone of Drewing Automotive. She excels at her multifaceted role, bridging new businesses with the community through her outreach.
“Ashley’s high energy, enthusiasm, and work ethic make her a great advocate and tremendous asset for Drewing Automotive Group,” says Stephanie Johnson, executive director at the Special Learning Center and board member at United Way of Central Missouri.
Rusty Drewing Automotive is not the only place Ashley is making an impact. Her drive has rippled into her community volunteerism. Ashley is active with numerous community organizations. Her impact shines brightest at the United Way, where she serves as a campaign pacemaker, and at the Special Learning Center, where she serves on the board of directors.
“My intention in getting into all of this was networking and meeting new people when I was young and fresh out of college,” Ashley says. “But it turned into something bigger along the way.”
Ashley now serves as a dynamic leader and member of the Special Learning Center Board of Directors. Her advice to young professionals is to get involved.
“Find an organization that connects with you,” she says. “I’ve found that most organizations will work with your schedule. There are many opportunities out there, and if you can’t commit every day or twice a week, there is a way to help every now and then. I think volunteering your time is super important.”
Ashley understands the importance of providing direct, personal connections and making moments truly special for those served by United Way agencies.
Through the Special Learning Center, she has met several children with disabilities. Inspired by the children’s perseverance, she has utilized her community connections to provide the Special Learning Center children and their families with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
For one of these experiences, Ashley arranged for children to attend a St. Louis Cardinals game in a private suite behind home plate, which included an all-you-can-eat ice cream bar and a surprise photo op from the Cardinals’ mascot, Fred Bird. During the 2023-24 school year, Ashely celebrated Jackson, a 5-year-old student at the Special Learning Center, who stood independently for the first time in his life. The day after Jackson’s accomplishment, Ashley dropped off a mini Chiefs helmet signed by one of the players. Ashley doesn’t volunteer because she wants recognition; she volunteers to improve the lives of others.
“Hopefully, I am leaving an impact with one person somewhere along my journey,” Ashley says. “That is all that I would want.”