CONCORD, N.C. – Tuesday, Hendrick Motorsports drivers Kasey Kahne, Chase Elliott, Jimmie Johnson and Dale Earnhardt Jr. launched a disaster relief fund to support hurricane victims.
The four drivers and the Hendrick Motorsports organization combined to commit $200,000 to the cause, and Wednesday afternoon, sister company Hendrick Automotive Group announced that it would contribute another $100,000 to the cause.
“When the automotive group heard about what the drivers and Hendrick Motorsports were doing, they decided that they would give $100,000,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports and chairman of Hendrick Automotive Group. “I’m excited about it.”
The amount raised by the campaign so far totals more than $300,000, and the drivers are encouraging fans to donate as they can in order to reach a goal of $500,000 within two weeks.
“I appreciate anybody that’s really willing to help,” Elliott said. “Big or small number, it really doesn’t matter. Any little bit makes a difference, in my opinion.”
All donations to the campaign will benefit qualified charitable organizations supporting disaster relief efforts, including the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund.
Representatives from each of the four driver foundations and Hendrick Motorsports will work to identify where other contributions will be directed. Emphasis will be placed on organizations that support communities affected by natural disasters and that maintain efficient operations to assure the most money possible will go toward helping people who need it.
“Clearly, we’ve had one hurricane that’s been very devastating, and there’s a second one coming now, so the fund is going to be very helpful and useful for a lot of people in need,” Johnson said. “Excited to know that just amongst our Hendrick family we’ve almost made it to our goal, and with participation from the fans, we’ll get there.”
Tax-deductible contributions can be made by visiting HendrickRelief.org.
“I like to think we’re a giving company, but I really admire the drivers for stepping up and taking the lead in saying they want to do this and reach out to their fan base and all the people they deal with to see if we can make a difference,” Hendrick said.