Finalists announced for sixth annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award

July 14, 2016

Staff Report

NASCAR Wire Service

The NASCAR Foundation has announced the four finalists for the Sixth Annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award Presented by Nationwide, which honors volunteers who work for children’s causes in their communities.

The award winner will be determined via an online vote now underway and running through Sept. 26 at 5 p.m. (ET) at NASCAR.com/Award. The award will be presented by The NASCAR Foundation Chairwoman Emeritus Betty Jane France on Sept. 27 during the inaugural Honors Gala at the Marriott Marquis in New York City. The foundation will donate $100,000 to the charity represented by the award winner and $25,000 to each of the other three finalists’ charities.

This year’s finalists – who also are NASCAR fans – are:

• Jim Giaccone of Bayville, New York, representing 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.

• Andy Hoffman of Atkinson, Nebraska, founder of the Team Jack Foundation, which raises money to fund pediatric brain cancer research and works to create national awareness for the disease.

• Logan Houptley of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, founding member of Mikayla’s Voice. The organization works to inspire children and young adults to embrace individuals of all abilities, while promoting cultural change by educating communities about inclusion and acceptance.

• Parker White, of Greensboro, North Carolina, founder of BackPack Beginnings, which 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.

“The body of work by this year’s four finalists reflects an impressive level of commitment to improving the lives of children,” said France. “Their accomplishments likewise reflect The NASCAR Foundation’s fundamental mission which is to give back to our communities and have a meaningful impact on the lives of children. All four finalists are wonderful representatives of our award process and of the NASCAR community.”

Earlier this week, The NASCAR Foundation announced the scheduling of the Honors Gala, an event celebrating the foundation’s “10 Years of Giving” – a time span resulting in donations of $25 million to more than one million children since the organization’s 2006 inception. The event will include the presentation of the first 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. In addition, the Honors Gala will feature an appearance by multi-platinum selling pop star Rachel Platten, performing music from her major-label debut, “Wildfire.”