Benefit finds new format

Mandy Theurer died almost six years ago after her SUV crashed into a ditch near Salamonia.

Since her death, Mandy’s family has hosted an annual benefit auction and homemade meal in her memory. Funds from the event are distributed to a variety of Jay County organizations.

But in light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the family has opted to move the auction to Facebook this year and convert the dinner to a carryout.

“Because of COVID, we had to figure out how to still hold the benefit … and also be able to raise the money to give back to the community,” said Cassie Alexander, Mandy’s sister.

The family usually donates proceeds to Jay County Cancer Society and gives two scholarships — one based in agriculture and the other in cosmetology — along with donating to other various organizations.

So far, 70 items have been posted to the public group boasting more than 1,200 members. Anyone can donate auction items to Alexander, who posts each listing. From there, group members can comment on each post to bid. There’s a lot of variety, with donations varying from candles and gift baskets to furniture to gift certificates. There’s also an abundance of Marilyn Monroe themed items, nodding to Mandy’s love for the actress.

The online auction will remain in session through 9 p.m. Feb. 14.

Sharon Beeler worked with Mandy’s mother, Charlene Theurer, at Zion Lutheran Church several years ago. They’re also distant relatives. She plans to donate items and join the bidding online this year. She noted it’s hard to lose young family members.

“That’s what I’m going to miss this year, being with the family,” Beeler said. “It’s a healing process for them.”

The benefit auction is usually a time for family to gather and share stories about Mandy. This year, though, it’s mostly being conducted via phone or computer screen, which takes a little away from the event, Alexander explained.

“We look forward to seeing people, reminiscing — some of Mandy’s friends come from out of town. And so it’s really just a good time of fellowship,” Alexander said. “That’s the piece that’s really sad that we’re not gonna get this year.”

Some of the family will be gathering, though, to help distribute a carryout dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 19 at Jay Community Center. Free-will donations can be made for the dinner, although Alexander noted it will be available in limited quantities.

Those interested can also order t-shirts for $20 each. The design includes a smiley face with the word “Gooten,” an exclamation Mandy often used. “It’s a Mandy thing” and the year are also printed on the shirt.

Alexander praised Jay County for its response to the benefit each year.

“The community has been amazing, actually since the death of Mandy,” Alexander said. “Just the outpouring of support — they are always so generous in donations for the auction, they always come out for dinner. They’ve just been amazing.”

To join the online auction, check out the Mandy Theurer Benefit Online Auction group on Facebook or search bit.ly/MandyTheurerBenefit.