In this installment of the spotlight series featuring community supporters of the library project, we are highlighting the Stanley Lions Club’s extraordinary $25,000 pledge to help fund the expansion of the D.R. Moon Library—a project designed to enhance services, increase space, and create new opportunities for residents of all ages.
Jerry Dirkes is the current Treasurer of the Stanley Lions Club and involved with the organization for many years. When asked about why the Lions Club made this commitment, Dirkes said “It was important since we are a community service organization that we give back to the area, the library needed to be updated and we are honored to be part of this project.”
This generous donation, pledged early on in the library’s campaign, reflects the Lions’ initiative and long-standing dedication to strengthening the local community. The expanded library will provide improved access to books, technology, programming, and gathering spaces—ensuring the D.R. Moon Library is able to continue to serve as a vibrant hub for education and connection in Stanley.
The Stanley Lions Club is a local chapter of Lions Clubs International, the world’s largest service club organization. Founded in 1917, Lions Clubs International includes more than 1.4 million members across the globe who are committed to serving their communities. Lions are especially known for their work supporting vision and eye health initiatives, youth programs, disaster relief efforts and community improvement projects. The Stanley chapter proudly carries on that mission at the local level—meeting community needs through hands-on service and financial support.
Here in Stanley, the Lions Club is best known for Watermelon Fest, held the last weekend in July each year. This annual celebration brings families together for fun, food, and fellowship—while also raising funds that go directly back into the community through projects just like the library expansion. Through their volunteerism, fundraising, and generous donations, the Stanley Lions Club continues to demonstrate what service truly means.
The D.R. Moon Library expansion represents more than just a building project—it is an investment in lifelong learning, early literacy, workforce development, and community engagement. The Stanley Lions Club’s $25,000 commitment plays a critical role in moving this vision forward. Their leadership sets an inspiring example of how local organizations can partner together to create meaningful, lasting change. On behalf of the community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Stanley Lions Club for their generosity, service, and unwavering commitment to Stanley’s future.