DAYTONA BEACH, Florida (October 22, 2024)
— Four inspiring NASCAR fans who are making a difference in the lives of children through local children’s organizations were announced today by the NASCAR Foundation as finalists for the 14th annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award. The announcement, which was made live on Speedway with Dave Moody on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, highlighted the volunteers’ commitment to improving the lives of children across the country.
Finalists Tammy Raulerson, Judy Simmons, Carlos Washington and Julie Wooldridge were surprised on-air by the appearance of reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney, who congratulated them on their volunteer accomplishments while showing his appreciation for their impact on children in local communities.
“This year’s award finalists exemplify the generosity of our NASCAR community. Their volunteer efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of children in our local racing communities, a passion for helping others that was championed by Betty Jane France,” said Mike Helton, President of the NASCAR Foundation. “Tammy, Judy, Carlos and Julie are an inspiration to us all. We hope that NASCAR fans around the world will take the time to learn more about the incredible stories of these finalists and vote for this year’s winner.
RELATED: Learn more about the finalists, vote
The NASCAR Foundation’s Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, named in honor of the foundation’s late founder and president, Betty Jane France, recognizes NASCAR fans who volunteer for children’s causes in their local communities. Each finalist receives a minimum donation of $25,000 for their organization, with the overall winner receiving a $100,000 donation from the NASCAR Foundation to further their efforts.
The finalists for the 14th edition of the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Prize are:
Tammy Raulerson of College Station, Texas, a volunteer who has spent more than a decade organizing and supervising family camp weekends and providing families facing pediatric cancer support, community and joy through Periwinkle Foundation.
Judy Simmons of Axton, Virginia, a volunteer who has been a member of the God’s Pit Crew disaster response team of more than 1,500 volunteers for six years. In her role, Judy leads teams of volunteers to meet the critical needs of families and children during times of crisis.
Carlos Washington of Florence, South Carolina, a volunteer who has dedicated 20 years of service to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee area, which provide programs that promote childhood development by instilling a sense of competence, d usefulness, belonging and influence.
Julie Wooldridge of Mooresville, North Carolina, who co-founded Hope of Mooresville six years ago to organize safe temporary housing and support services for local homeless women and children and to provide long-term solutions to the homelessness while breaking the cycle for the next generation of families.
The big winner will be determined by an online vote, open now. To view the finalist videos, visit NASCARfoundaton.org/Prices to watch clips about each finalist’s impact on children while voting once a day, every day until November 18 at 6 p.m. ET for their favorite finalist.
The overall winner will be announced at the NASCAR Awards in Charlotte on Friday, November 22.
To learn more about the NASCAR Foundation Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award and the 2024 finalists, visit NASCARfoundation.org/Award.
