DREW COLLINS
Today’s conversation is one that carries both heartbreak and hope, remembrance and resilience.
Joining us is Drew Collins — father of Elizabeth Collins and uncle of Lyric Cook-Morrissey. In July of 2012, the two Evansdale cousins disappeared during a bike ride near Meyers Lake, a tragedy that deeply impacted not only Iowa, but people across the country.
For those who never had the chance to meet them personally, Elizabeth and Lyric were more than headlines or a news story. They were joyful, loved, spirited young girls with bright smiles, unique personalities, and families who adored them. They were daughters, cousins, friends, classmates — kids who should have had the chance to grow up and follow their dreams.
I had the privilege of knowing the girls myself while serving them doughnuts on Sunday mornings at Heartland Vineyard Church, as part of the Hospitality Team, and like so many others in our community, their memories have never left me.
In the years since, Drew and his family have turned unimaginable grief into advocacy, outreach, and action. Through the annual Angel’s Ride & Drive, child safety initiatives, support for missing and homicide victim families, and ongoing work with local law enforcement and Crime Stoppers, Drew continues honoring Elizabeth and Lyric in meaningful and impactful ways.
On Saturday, July 11th, the community will gather once again for the 14th Annual Memorial Ride & Drive for the Girls. Registration begins at 8 AM at Lofty’s Lounge in Evansdale, with motorcycles, cars, trucks, and other street-legal vehicles all welcome to participate. The event includes live music, raffles, silent auctions, memorial stops along the route, and fundraising efforts supporting Angels Park, Crime Stoppers, and the Elizabeth Collins Foundation Community Mission.
Most importantly, it’s a day centered on remembrance, community, healing, and ensuring Elizabeth and Lyric are never forgotten.
Drew, thank you sincerely for being here with us today.
