NASCAR Related Charities Events and News

The banner in the Jayski Computer Lab at Victory Junction

Charity Related Links & Jumps
(click on to go directly to that section)

NOTE this is not ALL events or charities, this page is updated as much as possible with information found or sent
Some NASCAR Related Charity Links
Event Links (by date of event)
Recent Charity Related News / Grants / Past Events
NASCAR Related Charity Events / Auctions / Raffles (by date)
Email to send Event / Auctions Info
Victory Junction News & Jayski Computer Labs News
Military and past news & events
Driver Appearance/Chat page

Links to Information about Charity Events / Auctions / Raffles
NASCAR Foundation Volunteer Network [on going]
Petty Museum selling Original Adam Petty Diecast Cars
"Never Give Up" bracelet for ovarian cancer
Lynda Petty Memorial Donation
Victory Junction News & Jayski Computer Lab
Victory Junction Fan Walk - Brick Program
Dream Racer

Recent NASCAR Charity Related News / Grants / Past Events
NASCAR Fine Payments Go to NASCAR Foundation: Since the 2008 season, all money collected from fines and penalties issued to drivers goes to the NASCAR Foundation for its charitable initiatives.

Hope For The Warriors partners with Waltrip Brothers Charity Championship: Hope For The Warriors has once again joined forces with the Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship to shed light on the military community and share hope with service members, veterans and military families at the ninth annual charity event hosted by brothers Darrell and Michael Waltrip. Gifting a service dog to a decorated military veteran, providing relief to the military-centric community of Jacksonville, N.C., following a devastating hurricane, and supporting a combat veteran's growing business venture are just three of the ways that the organizations joined forces to restore self, family and hope through this year's event. [More](10-25-2018)

Jimmie Johnson Foundation golf tournament raises $500,000 for public schools: Following the NASCAR race weekend at the Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway Roval, Jimmie Johnson hosted the 12th Annual Jimmie Johnson Foundation Golf Tournament at Quail Hollow Club on Monday, October 1, 2018. The event raised $500,000 to fund grants to K-12 public schools. The tournament, which in twelve years has raised more than $7.5 Million, benefits the Champions Grant program. The grants range from $20,000-$75,000 and are distributed to K-12 public schools in Chandra and Jimmie Johnson's hometowns in California and Oklahoma, and where they currently reside in North Carolina.[More](10-3-2018)

Dale Jr. Foundation sets 2018 Gloves Program: As has been for the past four years, The Dale Jr. Foundation will support Nationwide Children's Hospital with a Driven to Give Gloves program, but this year the program features 32 NASCAR Cup Series drivers and all four of JR Motorsports' NASCAR Xfinity Series drivers, Dale Earnhardt Jr. announced today. [More](7-21-2018)

2018 Jimmie Johnson Foundation Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope grant recipients announced: The Jimmie Johnson Foundation announced today the five recipients of this year's $25,000 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope grants. The Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program invites fans and consumers across the country to nominate not-for-profit (501c3) organizations that support K-12 public education for the opportunity to receive one of five (5) available grant packages.[More](5-30-2018)

Clint Black to headline Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship: One of the most legendary names in Nashville will grace the stage of Darrell and Michael Waltrip's Ninth Annual Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship (WBCC) later this year. Country artist Clint Black will headline the Oct. 17 Champion's Dinner to kick off the two-day fundraiser benefitting Motor Racing Outreach (MRO).[More](5-23-2018)

Smithfield Foods and Victory Junction unveil new indoor archery facility: oday, Victory Junction, a children's camp committed to enriching the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses by providing life-changing camp experiences, unveiled the Smithfield Foods Archery Center. The camp's new indoor facility is funded by a $500,000 gift from the Smithfield Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Smithfield Foods, Inc.[More](5-22-2018)

'Over the Edge' rappelling fundraiser to benefit Friends of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Foundation and The NASCAR Foundation: Registration is now open for "Over the Edge," a unique fundraising event which allows thrill-seekers to rappel 10 stories down the Embassy Suites Charlotte Uptown on Sept. 25-26, motivated by benefitting education and healthcare services to children in the Charlotte area through Friends of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Foundation and The NASCAR Foundation.[More](5-17-2018)

Star-studded musical lineup to perform at Martin Truex Jr. Foundation Gala - Catwalk for a Cause: ward-winning artists Cassadee Pope, Cole Swindell and Cold Creek County will perform during the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation's 9th annual Catwalk for a Cause presented by Furniture Row, a fundraiser for childhood cancer awareness and initiatives. The gala, which will carry the theme of Mid Summer Night's Dream, will take place Wednesday evening May 16 at the Statesville Regional Airport, and will again feature Catwalk Heroes - children in treatment or remission from cancer walking the runway with NASCAR drivers and their spouses.[More](5-10-2018)

Jimmie Johnson Foundation to offer grant opportunities totaling $125,000: Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson announced, on behalf of the Jimmie Johnson Foundation and Blue Bunny Ice Cream, the launch of the 2018 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope campaign this morning at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California.[More](3-18-2018)

StarCom Racing considering second car at Texas: StarCom Racing hopes to have two cars in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway next month, team manager Derrike Cope recently told The Racing Experts. The single-car operation currently fields a full-time entry in its No. 00 Chevrolet for Jeffrey Earnhardt.[More](3-10-2018)

Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America returns to East Coast in 2018: Former NASCAR driver and NBC Sports racing analyst Kyle Petty is once again revving up his Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America for the 24th year in a row. As one of the most successful and popular charity rides in the country, the Ride will travel down the East Coast this spring for the first time since 2011. Starting in Portland, Maine, on May 5 and ending in Greensboro, North Carolina, on May 11, Petty will lead 225 participants, including a record of more than 25 new riders, through nine states in seven days.[More](2-27-2018)

Speedway Children's Charities to distribute more than $3.2 Million: Speedway Children's Charities officials announced today that the far-reaching nonprofit will distribute a record-setting amount of more than $3.2 million in grants to 435 charitable organizations across the country this year, bringing the total allocation amount to more than $52 million since the O. Bruton Smith family founded the nonprofit in 1982. Funds distributed by Speedway Children's Charities chapters at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Kentucky Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway and Texas Motor Speedway totaled a staggering $3,270,240 in 2017.[More](12-8-2017)

Julian Maha wins Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award: Julian Maha, a Birmingham physician and founder of an organization that works to improve the lives of children with autism, was announced as the winner of The NASCAR Foundation's Seventh Annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award Presented by Nationwide on Thursday night, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Awards at Wynn Las Vegas. Maha, from Vestavia Hills, Alabama, was chosen via an online fan vote conducted on NASCAR.com. He is the award-winning founder of KultureCity, the cutting-edge organization that also seeks to educate society regarding inclusion of autistic children. In addition to the award, KultureCity received a $100,000 donation from the foundation, NASCAR's charitable arm.[More](11-30-2017)

Eighth annual Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship raised nearly $600,000: Last month's Eighth Annual Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship (WBCC) raised nearly $600,000 to benefit multiple charities. Hosted by Darrell and Michael Waltrip in Franklin, Tenn., the Oct. 18 Champion's Dinner Presented by ACLJ.org and the Oct. 19 golf tournament sponsored by Speedway Motorsports, Inc. combined to raise more than $575,000, pushing the WBCC's fundraising grand total to well more than $3,000,000 over the last six years. Money raised this year benefited Motor Racing Outreach (MRO), Speedway Children's Charities, The Journey Home Project, The Dog Knowledge Service Dog Foundation, Hope for the Warriors and Feed The Children.[More](11-29-2017)

Jimmie Johnson to wear the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope at Michigan: Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson will wear the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope, which features five charities working to improve K-12 public education, this weekend during the Pure Michigan 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn where a special paint scheme featuring the Jimmie Johnson Foundation (JJF) will be featured on his No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet. As a show of support to Johnson's efforts to raise funds for programs that support K-12 public education, a number of his NASCAR Cup Series competitors will display JJF-branded decals on the visors of their helmets.[More](8-8-2017)

NASCAR Foundation appoints four new members to board of directors: The NASCAR Foundation today announced the appointment of four members to the organization's board of directors. The multi-faceted group represents business community experience and leadership at the local and national levels, positioning the Foundation for future growth in its mission to improve the quality of life for children in need.[More](7-27-2017)

Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America raises $1.3 million for charity: 200 riders traveled the Pacific Northwest from Portland to Milwaukee to raise funds and awareness for Victory Junction [More](6-20-2017)

NASCAR Foundation appoints Nichole Krieger as Executive Director: The NASCAR Foundation today appointed Nichole Krieger as Executive Director. Krieger - who served as Acting Executive Director since February following five years as Senior Director, Development and Marketing - will assume her new role effective immediately and report into NASCAR Vice Chairman Mike Helton.[More](6-7-2017)

Speedway Children's Charities Gala raises a record-setting estimated $890,000: The biggest stars in the NASCAR industry came together Wednesday for the 37th annual Speedway Children's Charities Gala sponsored by Sonic Automotive and Speedway Motorsports, Inc. The fundraising event is estimated to have generated a record-setting $890,000. Held at the Ritz-Carlton in downtown Charlotte, the black-tie dinner and auction was hosted by FOX's Adam Alexander and Shannon Spake, with entertainment provided by GRAMMY award-winning musician Darius Rucker and special honors being bestowed upon NASCAR Cup Series driver Jimmie Johnson.[More](5-25-2017)

Jimmie Johnson Foundation, Blue Bunny Ice Cream announce recipients of the 2017 Helmet of Hope: Seven-time NASCAR Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson, along with Mike Wells, President and CEO of Wells Enterprises, Inc., announced today the five recipients of this year's $25,000 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope grants. The Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program invites fans and consumers across the country to nominate not-for-profit (501c3) organizations that support K-12 public education for the opportunity to receive one of five (5) available grant packages.[More](5-18-2017)

Charlie Daniels Band to headline Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship: Darrell and Michael Waltrip announced today that the legendary Charlie Daniels Band will headline their Champion's Dinner Presented by ACLJ.org to kick off the Eighth Annual Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship (WBCC) on Wednesday, Oct. 18, in Franklin, Tenn. The Charlie Daniels Band will open off the two-day fundraiser benefitting Speedway Children's Charities, Motor Racing Outreach (MRO) and The Journey Home Project. In just seven years, the WBCC has raised $2.5 million for various charities.[More](5-18-2017)

NASCAR Foundation Executive Director leaving: Lorene King, who has led The NASCAR Foundation as its executive director since 2012, has accepted a position with Daytona State College to serve as vice president of advancement and executive director of the Daytona State College Foundation.[More](2-22-2017)

Hope For The Warriors celebrates success in year two: Operating in its second year within the NASCAR garage, Hope For The Warriors' Drive For Hope program achieved unprecedented success in 2016. In total, over 250 service members, veterans and military family members attended Drive For Hope events, 62 fallen service members were honored on three racecars during the Coca-Cola 600, more than 20 drivers, crew chiefs and media personalities came together to support Hope For The Warriors while participating in a NASCAR-themed PSA, three drivers and teams donated space on their racecars to help gain attention for the national military nonprofit, and those within the NASCAR industry graciously gave their time for countless meet and greets, photo opportunities and at-track experiences with service members throughout 2016. Other highlights from the 2016 season included a series of 30-second PSAs that brought together more than 20 drivers, crew chiefs, team owners and media personalities to support Hope For The Warriors. With some of the sport's biggest names participating, including Jimmie Johnson, Tony Stewart and 2017 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Richard Childress, the group donated their time to help advance the cause and increase support for service members, veterans and military families. To learn more about the program visit HopeForTheWarriors.org.(PR)(12-27-2016)

Denis, Denny & Mark's Pro-Am Jam nears $1 million raised: The Denis, Denny & Mark's Pro-Am Jam hosted by Student Transportation Inc. nearly toppled $1 million in funds raised over the five-year span of the annual celebrity concert and golf event held every October at the Daniel Island Club in Charleston, S.C. The 5th annual event, held this past Oct. 24-25, raised a Pro-Am Jam record amount of $270,000, bringing the five-year fundraising tally to $990,000. The fundraiser again featured the partnership of NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin, Hootie & the Blowfish founding member and lead guitarist Mark Bryan, and Denis Gallagher, CEO of Student Transportation Inc. Proceeds from the event were recently donated to the charitable organizations represented by the three partners, which have a common mission in creating better opportunities for children in the Lowcountry. Joining the three hosts at this year's Pro-Am Jam were celebrities from the worlds of racing, music, entertainment and sports. NASCAR personalities included Hamlin, Danica Patrick, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Kyle Larson, Michael Waltrip, Joe Gibbs and Rick Allen. Bryan once again led an incredible "Jam" concert with his friends in the music industry including fellow Hootie & the Blowfish band members Darius Rucker and Jim Sonefeld, plus musicians Gary U.S. Bonds, Edwin McCain, Kevin Kinney of Drivin' N Cryin', Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC, Javier Colon and Preston Pohl of NBC's The Voice, Patrick Davis, 14-time Grammy winner Dan Tyminski, and Vini "Mad Dog" Lopez of the E Street Band among others. The 2016 golf event also featured a hole-in-one by a Wounded Warrior who won a complimentary Toyota truck for achieving his accomplishment. With proceeds from this year's celebrity-packed event, the three partners have donated $90,000 to Carolina Studios, $90,000 to Student Transportation Inc. Cares Foundation, and $90,000 to The Denny Hamlin Foundation, which in turn donated $25,000 of its portion to The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Children's Hospital. With its $25,000 donation to MUSC, The Denny Hamlin Foundation continued its longstanding support of Cystic Fibrosis research at children's hospital facilities in Richmond, Va. and Charleston, S.C. The Pro-Am Jam has donated $190,000 of its proceeds to The Cystic Fibrosis Center at MUSC Children's Hospital over the event's five-year span. The 6th Annual Denny & Mark's Pro-Am Jam hosted by Student Transportation Inc. will again return to the Daniel Island Club next October 23-24, 2017. For updates on the event, please visit Facebook.com/TheProAmJam (PR)(1-9-2017)

Jimmie Johnson Foundation announces nearly $600,000 in Champions Grants: #48-Jimmie Johnson, and his wife Chandra, announced at an event at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, that 12 schools will receive $599,891 in Champions Grants this year. The grants are awarded annually to K-12 public and charter schools in and around their hometowns in San Diego and El Cajon, California and Muskogee and Tulsa, Oklahoma, as well as their current residence in Charlotte, North Carolina. This year, the Jimmie Johnson Foundation/Lowe's Toolbox for Education Champions Grant awards included $228,404 toward language and literacy initiatives, $195,745 toward science and technology programs, $145,742 for health and fitness activities, and $30,000 toward school improvement projects. See the full list of grants at jimmiejohnsonfoundation.org.(JJF)(11-12-2016)

Skinner Round-Up raises more than $220,000: The Skinner Round-Up presented by Cessna raised over $220,000 in support of Hope For The Warriors, a national nonprofit dedicated to restoring a sense of self, family and hope for service members, veterans and military families. Held at Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort and Burlingame Country Club in Lake Toxaway, N.C., the event included everything from a shooting competition and golf tournament to a hoedown bash and daytime festival for service members, the community and a variety of celebrities. Ten years after the first Skinner Round-Up event was held in Daytona Beach, Fla., the event moved to a new venue in 2016 as service members, celebrities, corporate executives and the general public all flocked to Lake Toxaway, N.C., in support of Hope For The Warriors. The funds raised will be used to support Hope For The Warriors' core programs, including health and wellness, sports and recreation, transition services, and community engagement and development. The 2016 Skinner Round-Up once again turned into a reunion of sorts among old friends and competitors from the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, as drivers Rick Crawford, Ron Hornaday, Jack Sprague and Mike Skinner were together for the event. Other NASCAR-related personalities who joined the group included Steve Park, Pat Patterson, Dave Moody and Bill and Gail Davis. Additionally, former NFL punter Chris Mohr and former Washington Redskins offensive linesman Ken Huff were both in attendance. Nashville-based singer/songwriters Billy Austin, Dillon Dixon and D. Vincent Williams, as well as "Nashville Blues Doctor" Stacy Mitchhart and singer/songwriter Teresa Wade, each performed for attendees throughout the event.(A2B Strategies)(10-26-2016)

Founder of Team Jack Foundation wins Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award: Andy Hoffman, founder of the Nebraska-based Team Jack Foundation dedicated to funding pediatric brain cancer research, was the recipient of The NASCAR Foundation's sixth annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award presented by Nationwide on Tuesday night, during The Foundation's inaugural Honors Gala at the Marriott Marquis. This year's award presentation is the highlight of the "10 Years of Giving" celebration for The NASCAR Foundation, which has donated approximately $25 million to impact the lives of children since its inception in 2006. The Honors Gala raised more than $1.6 million to benefit hospitalized children across the country through the recently established Speediatrics Children's Fund. The award is presented to a NASCAR fan who has done outstanding work on behalf of children in need in their community. The award honors the philanthropic ideals of the late Betty Jane France, who started The NASCAR Foundation in 2006. The NASCAR Foundation will donate $100,000 to "Team Jack," which was founded by Hoffman and his wife Brianna in 2013, two years after their son was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Team Jack works to raise research funds and create national awareness of pediatric brain cancer. There were three other finalists for the award; each will receive $25,000 from The NASCAR Foundation for the charity they represent. Those finalists: Jim Giaccone of Bayville, New York, representing the New York-based Tuesday's Children organization; Logan Houptley of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a founding member of the Mikayla's Voice organization in Nazareth, Pennsylvania; and Parker White of Greensboro, North Carolina, founder of BackPack Beginnings.(NASCAR Wire Service)(9-28-2016)

NASCAR Foundation donating $1 Million to NYU Langone Medical Center: The NASCAR Foundation will donate $1 million to NYU Langone Medical Center, as part of a multi-year partnership to benefit hospitalized children. Through this partnership, The NASCAR Foundation will enhance the Child Life Program at the Hassenfeld Children's Hospital of New York at NYU Langone. The partnership will be commemorated at the first-ever NASCAR Foundation Honors Gala taking place at The Marriott Marquis in New York on Sept. 27. This is The NASCAR Foundation's first multi-year partnership with a New York area hospital and marks its commitment to reach more kids nationally. NASCAR's charitable arm has donated $25 million and impacted more than one million children since its inception in 2006. Through this partnership, the Child Life Program will ease the anxiety of children and their families during their hospital stay, which is essential to recovery. The NASCAR Foundation will support an enhanced child and family experience, fund two Child Life specialists, and provide resources, equipment and supplies to complement the wide-range of supportive and therapeutic activities currently offered at Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at no charge to patients. This marks an expansion of The NASCAR Foundation's commitment to supporting children with Child Life programming as part of its signature Speediatrics program, which has provided more than 500,000 children with state-of-the-art medical care.(NASCAR)(9-23-2016)

Wilson-Kahne event raises over million dollars: Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, on behalf of his Why Not You Foundation and the Kasey Kahne Foundation, will present a check during the Thursday night Seahawks - Cowboys preseason game at CenturyLink Field for $1,060,005 to Seattle Children's Hospital and its Strong Against Cancer initiative. The fundraising proceeds were a combined effort from The DRIVE charity event co-hosted by Wilson and NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne on June 27 and 28 and an in-store promotion by Safeway's customers that ran during the month of July. The third edition of the charity concert, auction and golf event was held at Suncadia resort in Cle Elum, Wash. The donation to Seattle Children's Hospital will aid research that supports immunotherapy - a medical treatment that reprograms a child's immune cells to fight cancer. Joining Russell for the on-field presentation of the donation will be Kelly Kahne, Kasey's father and a resident of Enumclaw, Dr. Jeff Sperring, the CEO of Seattle Children's Hospital, Dr. Gary Kaplan is Chairman & CEO of Virginia Mason Health System, and Sara Osborne, Director of Safeway Foundation and Albertsons Companies Foundation. Wilson and Kahne started the fundraising event in 2014 to give back to the Seattle community. In just three short years, they have been able to donate over $1.7 million to Seattle area charities. The remaining balance of the amount raised from 2016 will again benefit the Kasey Kahne Foundation and Why Not You Foundation directly. More than 600 guests attended the two-day private event that included a "jam" concert featuring a medley of musicians and special guests, including Preston Pohl from "The Voice," who led the house band, country legend Johnny Lee, Prince Ama, Arabian Price and MC Serch. The 2016 event sold out and featured the support of many great sponsors, including presenting sponsor Safeway, concert sponsor Great Clips, auction sponsor Virginia Mason, plus major partners Farmers Insurance, Financial Advocates, Northwest Chevy Dealers, and Alaska Airlines. Strong Against Cancer is a nationwide initiative inspired by the immunotherapy discoveries at the Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research at Seattle Children's Research Institute.(Kasey Kahne Foundation)(8-25-2016)

Phoenix International Raceway partners with Ronald McDonald House: Phoenix International Raceway, through Phoenix Raceway Charities, is spearheading a $500,000 renovation project for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix. The donation marks the largest contribution to date by the organization and is a result of fundraising and commitments generated from Phoenix Raceway's 50th Anniversary season in 2014. The 10-week project is expected to begin at the Ronald McDonald House's main building at 501 E. Roanoke Ave. in mid-August and be completed in time for the Can-Am 500, the semifinal race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship on Sunday, Nov. 13 at Phoenix International Raceway. The Roanoke House opened in 1985 with 16 guest rooms and became the first of three RMHC houses serving the Valley. The House was expanded by 10 bedrooms in 1995 and to 45 bedrooms in 2005. In 2008, the Valley's second Ronald McDonald House opened on the campus of Phoenix Children's Hospital with 18 rooms and the 16-room third House opened on the campus of Cardon Children's Medical Center in 2014. Phoenix Raceway Charities began in 2014, coinciding with the track's 50th Anniversary celebration, as a way for PIR to give back to the community that has helped make it the premier motorsports venue in the West. Funds have primarily been raised through the sale of official PIR-branded Arizona license plates, race weekend raffles and donations from fans and partners.(PIR)(8-10-2016)

Hendrick helps Summer Camp Fund reach its goal: NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick has donated $34,000 to The Charlotte Observer's Summer Camp Fund, the amount needed to help the fund reach its goal to give more children a chance to go to camp next year. Hendrick, last year's honorary chairman of the annual fundraising drive, said he came to realize how important it is to give children from low-income families the experience and opportunities that summer camp offers. "Over the last few years, our family has learned so much about issues impacting our young people," Hendrick said in a statement. "The success of the Summer Camp Fund really highlights the generosity and compassion of our community, and we've been proud to join with so many of our neighbors in supporting it." As of Friday, the Summer Camp Fund received donations totaling more than $190,000, which enables the non-profit to qualify for an additional $25,000 grant from the Leon Levine Foundation.(Charlotte Observer)(8-6-2016)

Fifth Third Bank Raises $145K For Stand Up To Cancer : During the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) race at Kentucky Speedway on July 9, 2016, Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s #17 Fifth Third Ford was adorned with 53 names of brave individuals who are currently fighting or have fought a battle with cancer. Many of these names belonged to Fifth Third employees and their loved ones. As a result, Fifth Third is proud to announce that over $145,000 will be donated to Stand Up To Cancer. "It was an honor to help Fifth Third raise funds and bring awareness to a great cause," Stenhouse said. "We went to Fifth Third's headquarters in Cincinnati on Thursday leading into the race weekend and got to meet with a lot of the employees who submitted names and individuals whose names appeared on the car. It was great to spend time with Willie (Rhodarmer), whose name was above my passenger window, and her family. Willie is a brave woman who is fighting cancer but still has a lot of spunk. Cancer affects so many so it's awesome to see the support of Fifth Third to Stand Up To Cancer." A longtime supporter of Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), Fifth Third Bank, in partnership with Ricky Stenhouse Jr., reached out to NASCAR fans asking them to #StandUpwithRicky and honor a friend or family member who has fought or is in the fight against cancer by sharing their story. For every story shared with the hashtag #StandUpwithRicky, Fifth Third Bank made a donation to Stand Up To Cancer. Fifth Third will also continue its #howifight campaign through December 31. From running a 10K to bringing dinner to a neighbor fighting cancer, Fifth Third is encouraging everyone to share how they fight using #howifight. Fifth Third Bank will donate $1 per eligible hashtag usage to Stand Up To Cancer up to $500,000. You can see how people fight and get full details at 53.com/howifight. To date, Fifth Third Bank has donated over $6.3 million to Stand Up To Cancer.(Roush Fenway Racing)(7-27-2016)

NASCAR Foundation Board of Directors Adds Two Members: The NASCAR Foundation announced two key additions to its board of directors, further strengthening the organization's leadership and its relationships with business communities on both local and national levels. Katie Palmer, Florida Personal Lines Leader with Daytona Beach-based Brown & Brown Insurance, and Sunoco LP Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Cynthia Archer will join the board that is led by Chairwoman Emeritus Betty Jane France and Chairman Mike Helton. The NASCAR Foundation is NASCAR's charitable arm that works to improve the lives of children in need. It was founded in 2006 by France. Brown & Brown was founded in Daytona Beach in 1939. The growth of its business model from regional to national scope coincided with that of NASCAR, which started in Daytona Beach in 1947. Sunoco has been the Official Fuel of NASCAR since 2004 and since then, has almost doubled the size of its retail network. Palmer, who has been with Brown & Brown since 2012, said she is "extremely honored to join The NASCAR Foundation and to be a part of an organization that is filled with such a passion and dedication for helping today's youth live happier, healthier lives." Archer is a longtime Sunoco executive who was deeply involved with Sunoco's entrance into the sport in 2004 and with the growth in Sunoco's partnership with NASCAR since then. She has held her current positions since April 2015.(NASCAR)(7-20-2016)

Finalists Announced for Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award: Finalists for The NASCAR Foundation's Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award Presented by Nationwide were announced on Wednesday night. The award will be showcased on Sept. 27 at the Foundation's inaugural Honors Gala at the Marriott Marquis in New York City. The award honors volunteers - who are also NASCAR fans - who dedicate themselves to children's causes in their communities throughout the United States. The award winner will be determined via an online vote now underway and running through Sept. 26 at 5:00pm/et at NASCAR.com/Award. This year's Award presentation will be part of the "10 Years of Giving" celebration for The NASCAR Foundation, which has donated $25 million to more than one million children since its inception in 2006. Betty Jane France, founder and chairwoman emeritus of The NASCAR Foundation, will present the award. The NASCAR Foundation will donate a total of $175,000 to the charities represented by the finalists - with the winner's charity receiving a $100,000 donation. This year's finalists include Jim Giaccone of Bayville, New York, representing Tuesday's Children; Andy Hoffman of Atkinson, Nebraska, founder of the Team Jack Foundation; Logan Houptley of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a founding member of Mikayla's Voice; and Parker White of Greensboro, North Carolina, founder of BackPack Beginnings. Following is additional information about the 2016 finalists:
Jim Giaccone, Tuesday's Children: Giaccone lost his older brother, Joseph, in the attacks on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Giaccone determined quickly that the best way to honor his brother was by assisting others - especially children - who also were affected by the tragedy. That led to Giaccone's involvement with Tuesday's Children, an organization founded in 2001 and dedicated to providing long-term support to those directly impacted by the events of 9/11 and other communities impacted by terrorism and traumatic loss. Jim is involved with many aspects of Tuesday's Children including raising funds, serving on the Mentoring Advisory Board, serving on the Family Advisory Board and his most significant contribution: serving as a mentor.
Andy Hoffman, Team Jack Foundation: In 2011, Hoffman's world was turned upside down when his son, Jack, was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Hoffman soon learned that procedures to treat pediatric brain cancer - surgery and chemotherapy - were more than 30 years old. He also learned that less than four percent of federal funding is dedicated to childhood cancer research each year. One year after the diagnosis, Hoffman made t-shirts as a fundraiser for children's brain cancer research; through his efforts he was able to sell 20,000 shirts and raise more than $300,000. Inspired by that success, Hoffman and his wife formed Team Jack Foundation in January 2013. The foundation raises money to fund pediatric brain cancer research and works to create national awareness for the disease.
Logan Houptley, Mikayla's Voice: Houptley met a young lady named Mikayla Resh in his third-grade classroom after moving to a new school district in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. Mikayla had profound multiple disabilities that included brain damage, cerebral palsy, seizure disorder, along with facing the challenges of being blind and deaf. At only 10 years old, Logan was incredibly understanding and accepting, treating Mikayla with love, kindness, and inclusion. Ten years after they met, Logan has continued his friendship with Mikayla, in the process helping create Mikayla's Voice. Founded in 2010, the organization is dedicated to inspiring children and young adults to embrace individuals of all abilities. The organization promotes cultural change by teaching communities about the importance of inclusion and acceptance.
Parker White, BackPack Beginnings: White founded BackPack Beginnings in 2010, driven by a compassion for families struggling to provide for their children on a daily basis. With two young children of her own, Parker understood a mother's desire to see her child be happy and successful. But she also knew that not every family has the means to put enough food on the table or provide basic necessities for their children. That led White to establish BackPack Beginnings, which strives to provide children in the Greensboro and High Point, North Carolina areas with nutritious food, clothing, and other basic necessities. BackPack Beginnings works with local schools to open food and clothing pantries, donate backpacks filled with blankets and school supplies, and provide comfort and hygiene items to children in need.
(NASCAR)(7-15-2016)

NASCAR Foundation to Host Honors Gala to Celebrate 10 Years of Giving: The NASCAR Foundation will host its first-ever Honors Gala at the Marriott Marquis in New York City Sept. 27 to unveil the winner of its signature Betty France Humanitarian Award Presented by Nationwide. Multi-platinum selling pop star Rachel Platten will perform live with music from her major-label debut, Wildfire, which debuted at number five on the Billboard 200 Chart in the U.S. and spawned chart-topping singles "Fight Song" and "Stand by You." The gala will celebrate "10 Years of Giving" for the NASCAR Foundation which has donated $25 million to more than one million children since its inception in 2006. Betty Jane France, Founder and Chairwoman Emeritus of The NASCAR Foundation, will present the Humanitarian Award to the NASCAR fan who has shown tremendous dedication to improving the lives of children in their communities. This Award has benefitted nearly 200,000 children since launching six years ago and the winner will be chosen following a public vote of four finalists that begins July 13. At the event, The NASCAR Foundation will hand out a series of awards including its first-ever Founder's Award to Mark Lazarus, Chairman of the NBC Sports Group. The Founder's Award honors contributions to philanthropy through use of time, talent and resources - both personally and professionally - to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children. The NASCAR Foundation will also announce the launch of the Speediatrics Children's Fund through a long-term partnership with a New York-area medical organization providing services to children in need. The event will also host a live auction featuring the artwork of the 2015 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award presented by Nationwide winner Jeff Hanson, a philanthropic artist whose artwork gifted to charity has generated nearly $2 million.(NASCAR)(7-12-2016)

Bubba Wallace launches fundraiser for flood victims in WV: Bubba Wallace, driver of the #6 Roush Fenway Ford in the NASCAR XFINITY Series, was recently fined $15,000 for a tweet regarding NASCAR's handling of the Daytona race. Wallace took to social media after many fans offered to help pay the fine: "Following Daytona, my emotions got the best of me, and I used social media to vent. That wasn't the best way to express myself, and I apologize for my actions. After the announcement of my fine, I was blown away by how many of you offered to assist me. With this support from my fans in mind, I thought there was a way we could turn this incident into a positive cause. For those of you that were considering making a donation towards me, I ask that you instead support this GoFundMe account, where we'll be raising money for The Greenbrier Resort's "Neighbors Loving Neighbors" campaign, which assists West Virginia's flood victims. Thank you all, and let's help those that need it! (Bubba Wallace's Facebook page)(7-7-2016)

Johnson Foundation Golf Tournament Tops $730,000 in Funds Raised: The Jimmie Johnson Foundation announced that its annual Jimmie Johnson Foundation Golf Tournament and Dinner raised more than $730,000. Johnson hosted 116 golfers at Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, California for Tuesday's golf tournament. The night before the tournament, the Johnsons hosted over 200 guests at a special dinner and auction at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, with music from O.A.R. The tournament, which in ten years has raised more than $6.3 million, benefits the Champions Grants program, a partnership between the Jimmie Johnson Foundation and Lowe's Toolbox for Education. The grants range from $25,000-$100,000 and are distributed to K-12 public schools in Chandra and Jimmie Johnson's hometowns in California and Oklahoma, and where they currently reside in North Carolina.(JJF)(7-4-2016)

NASCAR Weekend in Sonoma Nets More Than $216,000: Charitable programs combined to raise more than $216,000 for local youth groups during the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend at Sonoma Raceway, June 24-26. The proceeds from the majority of events will benefit Sonoma County youth organizations through the Sonoma Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities, the charitable arm of the raceway, which has distributed more than $5.1 million to local youth-serving non-profit groups since 2001. The Children's Champions Grand Marshal Banquet was held on Friday, June 24, at Cline Cellars in Sonoma. Proceeds from the banquet benefit Speedway Children's Charities and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma Valley. Overall, the banquet generated more than $156,000, while the Ride-of-a-Lifetime Online Charity Auction raised over $10,000. A live auction was also held the night of the banquet for a special NASCAR Race-Day Experience, which included a meet and greet with the NASCAR on FOX broadcast team and a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Hollywood Hotel. In addition, a special Pixar Studios package included a CARS-themed gift basket and a private tour of the Emeryville headquarters. Both packages combined to bring in nearly $15,000. More than $25,000 was also raised through various donations during the weekend, including a $5,000 donation on behalf of the Transporter Drivers of Motorsports Association (TDMA), which participated in the 6th annual NASCAR Hauler Parade in Sacramento on June 23. Great Clips raised over $6,000 in donations throughout the weekend at its mobile hair salon in the main paddock.(Sonoma Raceway)(7-4-2016)

Pearce gathers signatures from F1 racing greats for charity: Al Pearce is a writer for Autoweek and spent the last four years gathering autographs of former Formula One champions on a white helmet. He recently had the helmet auctioned off. The money went to three charities. Here is Pearce in his own words describing the experience: "In the past few days the Kyle Petty Charity Ride, the Victory Junction Gang Camp, the Jimmie Johnson Foundation and the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation have received direct deposits totaling $13,207 from Sotheby's Auction House in London. The Charity Ride and the Camp received most of the money; the drivers' foundations shared equally in lesser amounts, but all got four-figure deposits. That's the bottom line (after the euro-to-dollar conversion) from the sale of a full-face, white Formula One champions' helmet that Sotheby's auctioned on May 14 in Monte Carlo. The helmet carries personal signatures (not an agent or a PR rep or a relative) of 20 living F-1 world driving champions, plus signatures from Phil Hill and Sir Jack Brabham before they died. I spent parts of four years meeting these drivers and getting their autographs. From the very beginning (Phil Hill), I planned to split whatever proceeds I got equally between the Charity Ride and the Camp; I later added the foundations because Jimmie and Jeff were the only drivers to show any interest or encouragement. Sotheby's expected the helmet would attract a far larger bidding audience than it did, but they assured me (and I believe them) they did all they could in Monte Carlo."(Daytona Beach News Journal)(7-1-2016)

Kyle Busch Foundation Selects Third Round of "Bundle of Joy" Recipients: The Kyle Busch Foundation (KBF) has selected the third round of recipients of the "Kyle and Samantha Busch Bundle of Joy Fund" and awarded a total of over $34,000 to three Charlotte, N.C.-area couples toward their infertility treatments at Reproductive Endocrinology Associates of Charlotte (REACH). On June 4 KBF learned of its first success story when one of the couples previously awarded with funding welcomed twins (a boy and girl), while five other couples are currently expecting. The Buschs started the fund through the Kyle Busch Foundation in 2015 following the birth of their son, Brexton. After struggling with infertility issues themselves and completing successful treatments at REACH, they started the fund for other couples in similar situations who may not have the financial means to undergo treatments. Quite frequently medical insurance does not cover a majority of the costs associated with infertility treatments.
Applications for the "Kyle and Samantha Busch Bundle of Joy Fund" can be obtained through REACH in Charlotte and the fund is currently only available to patients of REACH who are residents of North Carolina. Stay up-to-date with all the latest KBF news online at KyleBuschFoundation.org, by liking the foundation on Facebook (KBFoundation) and by following the foundation on Twitter (@theKBFoundation).(KBF)(6-25-2016)

Hendrick Family Foundation to launch with event UPDATE: Rick and Linda Hendrick have established the not-for-profit Hendrick Family Foundation, which is rooted in the belief that people working together can transform the lives of those in need and have a meaningful impact on our communities. The sold out "Learn Live Hope" celebration will represent the new foundation's first formal fundraising initiative. Scheduled for May 22 at The Fillmore in Charlotte, North Carolina, the annual charity event will benefit Be The Match, Levine Children's Hospital and Together We Feed Charlotte. In 2015, Learn Live Hope generated more than $1.6 million to support multiple organizations. The Hendrick Family Foundation will consolidate the philanthropic efforts of the Hendrick organization, including Hendrick Motorsports and Hendrick Automotive Group. It will absorb the Hendrick Marrow Program, which Rick Hendrick founded in 1997 and has raised more than $15 million in partnership with Be The Match to support patients in need of life-saving marrow or cord blood transplants. The Hendrick Family Foundation will continue to work with Be The Match.(Hendrick Motorsports)(5-21-2016)
UPDATE: Last weekend's sold out "Learn Live Hope" event was the first formal fundraising initiative for Rick and Linda Hendrick's not-for-profit Hendrick Family Foundation. The annual event was held May 22 at The Fillmore, with Bank of America returning once again as the title sponsor. Among the guests were drivers Kasey Kahne, Chase Elliott and Jimmie Johnson, broadcasters Jeff Gordon and Darrell Waltrip, and former New York Yankees slugger Reggie Jackson. The beneficiaries were Be The Match, Levine Children's Hospital and Together We Feed Charlotte. And "Learn Live Hope" raised $1.3 million in 2016 - one year after generating more than $1.6 million to support multiple organizations in 2015 when a golf tournament was featured as a portion of the event. The golf tournament was not held in 2016 as the course was under construction. At this year's function, Bank of America Chief Administrative Officer Andrea Smith presented Hendrick with a $100,000 donation. Bank of America has supported "Learn Live Hope" for more than a decade as its title sponsor.(HMS)(5-28-2016)

Recipients of Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope grants announced: Six-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson, along with Mike Wells, President & CEO of Wells Enterprises, Inc., announced the five recipients of this year's $25,000 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope grants. The Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope is a program that allows fans and consumers across the country to nominate not-for-profit (501c3) organizations that support K-12 public education for the chance to receive one of five (5) available grant packages.
The 5 grant recipients are:
• ArtWell in Philadelphia
• Carlos Gilbert Elementary Parents! Teachers! Kids! in Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Change for Kids in New York
• Inside the Outdoors Foundation in Costa Mesa, California
• Mercy Child Advocacy Center in Sioux City, Iowa
The final five were selected via public vote. Nearly 225,000 votes were cast for the 10 semi-finalists during the voting period.
"All of the semi-finalist charities did a fantastic job of securing votes by engaging their supporters," said Johnson. "The vote this year was incredibly close. As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Jimmie Johnson Foundation, Chani (wife) and I are thrilled to have partners like Blue Bunny that make it possible for us to provide funding for the great work the five grant recipients are doing to support K-12 public education."
In addition to a $25,000 grant, each of the five recipient organizations will receive a Blue Bunny ice cream party and special recognition on Johnson's race helmet during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on August 7, 2016 at Watkins Glen International. To date, the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program has contributed more than $810,000 to 81 different charities.
"Congratulations to the five recipients of the 2016 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope grants," stated Mike Wells, President & CEO, Wells Enterprises, Inc., maker of Blue Bunny ice cream. "The rallying effort by the fans and supporters of the 10 semi-finalists is always impressive and illustrates the energy and passion around the purpose and mission of each organization. It is an honor to help each of them further the important work they are committed to around education."
Thanks to the generosity of Wells Enterprises, Inc., the remaining five semi-finalist charities will each receive a $1,000 grant and a Blue Bunny Ice Cream party as well. For additional information about the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program, visit www.helmetofhope.org.(JJF)(5-24-2016)

Hendrick Family Foundation to launch with event: Rick and Linda Hendrick have established the not-for-profit Hendrick Family Foundation, which is rooted in the belief that people working together can transform the lives of those in need and have a meaningful impact on our communities. The sold out "Learn Live Hope" celebration will represent the new foundation's first formal fundraising initiative. Scheduled for May 22 at The Fillmore in Charlotte, North Carolina, the annual charity event will benefit Be The Match, Levine Children's Hospital and Together We Feed Charlotte. In 2015, Learn Live Hope generated more than $1.6 million to support multiple organizations. The Hendrick Family Foundation will consolidate the philanthropic efforts of the Hendrick organization, including Hendrick Motorsports and Hendrick Automotive Group. It will absorb the Hendrick Marrow Program, which Rick Hendrick founded in 1997 and has raised more than $15 million in partnership with Be The Match to support patients in need of life-saving marrow or cord blood transplants. The Hendrick Family Foundation will continue to work with Be The Match.(Hendrick Motorsports)(5-21-2016)

Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award wins Cynopsis Social Good Award: The NASCAR Foundation and Nationwide were honored at the Cynopsis Social Good Awards in New York City, winning the award for Nonprofit/Corporate Partnership with a Brand for The NASCAR Foundation's Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award presented by Nationwide. Cynopsis Media hosted the second annual Social Good Awards Breakfast April 7 at the New York Athletic Club in New York City to celebrate achievements by brands, networks and digital entities over the past year. The NASCAR Foundation's Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award presented by Nationwide honors a NASCAR fan who embodies the ideals of charity and community that France, the foundation's founder and chairwoman emeritus, has championed throughout her life. This year marks the sixth annual presentation of the award and NASCAR Official Partner Nationwide's second year as presenting sponsor for the award. With a panel of judges who benchmark excellence in the area of social good in the TV and entertainment industry, Cynopsis Media's Cynopsis Social Good Awards honors everything from sustainability partnership and PSA's, to diversity campaigns, environmental initiatives and more.(NASCAR)(4-12-2016)

Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award Permanent Trophy Display Unveiled At International Motorsports Center: The NASCAR Foundation unveiled a new permanent display for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award presented by Nationwide trophy on Wednesday, in the lobby of the International Motorsports Center. The trophy display was unveiled by The NASCAR Foundation Chairwoman Emeritus and Founder Betty Jane France, who was joined Wednesday by The NASCAR Foundation Chairman Mike Helton and other members of the foundation's board of directors. The Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award - the NASCAR industry's most prestigious community service honor - is presented annually to a NASCAR fan who embodies France's commitment to philanthropic causes and whose generosity and compassion has positively impacted the lives of children.
"This permanent display befits the growing stature and impact of our award," France said. "Since its inception, the award has benefited nearly 200,000 children throughout the United States. Today's unveiling also is an appropriate way to begin The NASCAR Foundation's 10th year of existence. For both our employees who come to the International Motorsports Center every day and our visitors, this display will be a reminder of the good, important work The NASCAR Foundation has been doing since 2006 to improve the quality of life for children."(NASCAR Foundation)(2-18-2016)

NASCAR related Charity Events / Auctions / Raffles

NASCAR Foundation Volunteer Network: Volunteering at-track is a great way to get the full experience of being at the race track - as well as interacting with NASCAR fans who have the same passion for the sport and for helping others as you do! Volunteers will be accepting donations for The NASCAR Foundation's collectibles such as pins, wristbands, hats, koozies, lanyards and much more at The NASCAR Foundation's booth at the race track. If you are volunteering on behalf of a local nonprofit organization then all of the proceeds from what you have sold will be split; 50% going back to your charity and the other 50% benefitting The NASCAR Foundation! You can also volunteer just for The NASCAR Foundation and have 100% of the proceeds you raise help children live happier, healthier lives through the Programs of The NASCAR Foundation.
The 2016 at-track schedule details when the NASCAR Foundation will be coming to your race market. If interested in volunteering please submit the form at nascarfoundation.org directly to Katy Barrales, Sr. Development Representative, (386) 310 - 5744 or kbarrales@nascarfoundation.org. More info at nascarfoundation.org

Pollex, Truex, Jr. design "Never Give Up" bracelet for ovarian cancer (Still available 6-24-2018): During a post-race interview following his June 7 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series victory at Pocono Raceway, Martin Truex Jr. was asked by a member of the media how he was able to keep going forward after all the adversity that's confronted him over the past two seasons. Without hesitation Truex gave a succinct and heartfelt answer -- "Never Give Up." The "Never Give Up" saying has taken on a meaning of its own, touching Truex's social media followers and race fans throughout the country and the world. Due to the global reaction to the slogan, Truex and his girlfriend Sherry Pollex have designed a NEVER GIVE UP wristband to help raise awareness, advocacy and research funding for ovarian cancer through the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation in cooperation with the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance (OCNA). The cost of the NEVER GIVE UP wristband is $4 and can be ordered online by visiting martintruexjr.com. With September being National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, the OCNA will also be selling the NEVER GIVE UP wristbands at its Teal Appeal display booth during the Bojangles' Southern 500 Sprint Cup Series weekend at Darlington Raceway. The black and teal NEVER GIVE UP silicone wristbands carry a personal message from Martin and Sherry along with their signatures separated by a teal ribbon. The wristband will also include a card that lists the symptoms of ovarian cancer. The outside matte black finish of the wristband represents Truex's #78 Furniture Row Racing Chevrolet and the inside teal finish represents the official ribbon color for ovarian cancer awareness.(Martin Truex, Jr. Foundation)(8-27-2015)

Jeff Hanson Wins The NASCAR Foundation's Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award: Picture this: a remarkable young artist whose talent sprang from the challenges of a childhood fight against cancer is the 2015 winner of The NASCAR Foundation's Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award presented by Nationwide. Jeff Hanson, 22, from Overland Park, Kansas, emerged from an elite group of four finalists after two months of online fan voting on NASCAR.com. The voting ended Thursday night; the fifth annual award was presented on Friday night during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Awards at Wynn Las Vegas. The Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award was established in honor of the foundation's chairwoman emeritus and founder Betty Jane France, for her longstanding charitable and community service efforts. Since its inception, the award has benefited more than 52,000 children nationally. Hanson will receive a $100,000 donation from The NASCAR Foundation for the charity he represents, the New York-based Children's Tumor Foundation, in addition to a 2016 vehicle from Official Car Sponsor, Ford.
"Jeff Hanson's story is inspiring and his accomplishments are impressive," said France, who presented the award Friday night. "This is a resilient and immensely talented young man we have become proud to know - and even more proud to have as our fifth annual award winner."
"Nationwide would like to congratulate Jeff for winning the 2015 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award," said Terrance Williams, chief marketing officer for Nationwide. "Jeff's impact has been an inspiration to us all and we look forward to seeing him continuing his amazing work."
Hanson was only six years old when he was diagnosed with optic glioma, a tumor that was attacking his optic nerve. The tumor was caused by the rare genetic disorder neurofibromatosis (NF). After undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments, he was legally blind at the age of 12. During chemotherapy treatments in 2005, Hanson began painting with bright colors suited for someone with limited vision. In 2006 he turned his paintings into a fundraising platform for the Children's Tumor Foundation, selling them from his family's driveway. He raised $15,000 that summer - and then, continued to paint. His paintings have now raised more than $250,000 for the Children's Tumor Foundation and more than $1.3 million for charities worldwide. "What this means to me ... is I'm thrilled, I'm honored," Hanson said. "It means so much to me, that I can help the Children's Tumor Foundation with a $100,000 donation. Being recognized by such a well-known name as NASCAR is a win for the Children's Tumor Foundation and for neurofibromatosis, helping to raise awareness of a disorder that affects one in every 3,000 people. The money that we receive from The NASCAR Foundation will be used to launch an exciting new research program aimed at improving the lives of people like me who live with NF and help us get a little closer to finding a cure."
This year's award finalists also included Charlotte, North Carolina's Bob Bowler of Special Olympics North Carolina; Sellersburg, Indiana's Stephanie Decker of the Stephanie Decker Foundation; and Dunedin Florida's Carl Flatley of the Sepsis Alliance. All three will receive $25,000 donations from The NASCAR Foundation for their respective causes. "As always, we consider all of our finalists to be winners in their own right," France said. "All four have first-rate credentials, resulting in extremely close competition this year. For more information on The NASCAR Foundation, please visit the website: NASCARfoundation.org. Follow The NASCAR Foundation on www.Facebook.com/NASCARFoundation or on Twitter: @NASCAR_FDN.(NASCAR Foundation)(12-6-2015)