CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Jimmie Johnson Foundation and Blue Bunny Ice Cream have announced the launch of their 2017 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope campaign.
The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and Mike Wells, president and CEO of Wells Enterprises (maker of Blue Bunny Ice Cream) announced the program launch Monday in a video on Johnson's Facebook page.
Not-for-profit (501c3) organizations that directly support K-12 public education will be eligible to compete for one of the five available $25,000 grants, a Blue Bunny ice cream party and representation on Johnson's helmet for the Aug. 13 race at Michigan International Speedway.
“Jimmie and his wife Chandra’s continued dedication to the Helmet of Hope program is inspiring,” said Wells. “Blue Bunny is honored and proud to once again partner with them on this incredible program to help continue to support academic success for kids through these local organizations.”
The Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program, which began in 2008, allows fans and consumers across the country to nominate their favorite education-focused charities. Nominations can be made at www.helmetofhope.org through Friday, April 14. Ten semifinalists will be selected from these nominations. The public vote to choose the final five grant recipients will take place May 5 to 12.
“Blue Bunny and the Wells Family are incredible partners, and Chandra and I are so grateful for their continued support of this program and the Foundation,” Johnson said. “Each year, we are inspired by the passion the selected charities have for K-12 public education. The Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program provides them the opportunity to raise awareness for the amazing work they are doing in a fun and exciting way.”
To see the announcement video, take a look below.