The NASCAR Foundation marked its 20th anniversary this week with a two‑day celebration in New York City, culminating in a high‑profile gala at the historic Ziegfeld Ballroom on September 8.
A Gala with Star Power
The event drew a roster of celebrated guests, including current NASCAR drivers Joey Logano, Ross Chastain, AJ Allmendinger and Ty Dillon, as well as Emmy‑ and Tony‑Award‑winning actress Kristin Chenoweth, who will join the festivities in support of the foundation’s mission.
Organizer and Kaulig Racing owner Matt Kaulig, also behind the philanthropic arm Kaulig Giving, has pledged to help the foundation surpass a $2 million fundraising target through the Honors Gala and related activities.
The gala will honor four finalists for the 16th annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, with the ultimate winner receiving a $100,000 donation to further their charitable work.
Adding a tangible element to the celebration, the Speedy Bear Brigade, powered by Kaulig Giving, will distribute NASCAR‑themed teddy bears to children at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone and at 157 hospitals nationwide, while Kaulig Giving matches donor contributions up to $25,000 to amplify the program’s reach.
Beyond the gala, the foundation’s Speediatrics Fun Day Festivals engage NASCAR teams such as Kaulig Racing in building bicycles and providing gear to underprivileged youth across 16 NASCAR communities, reinforcing its commitment to hands‑on support for children and families.
Matt Kaulig emphasized that sustained philanthropy remains central to the foundation’s purpose, noting that the growth of NASCAR must be matched by continued community investment.