Speedway Children's Charities:Helping Children in NeedWith a mission to provide extra funds to nonprofit charities, Speedway Children's Charities has been making a significant difference in the lives of many children in need of assistance. The money raised and donated directly aids organizations that stretch limited budgets in order to uplift local communities and their surrounding regions. To help influential associations in carrying on their efforts regarding medicine, education, and social services – a host of interesting events and fund raising endeavors take place throughout the year. Brief History of Speedway Children's CharitiesWith a history that dates back to 1982, Speedway Children's Charities was founded by Bruton Smith – the Chairman of Speedway Motorsports and Sonic Automotive – as a way to give back to his regional neighbors. With the expansion of both companies, his charity work too increased. To manage the impending growth, Major General Thomas Sadler was hired as Executive Director. In the beginning, motorsports and automotive businesses supported the vision, but funding and participation has since involved a variety of corporate and community groups. In 2003, the charity also gained recognition when it became associated with NASCAR.The charities strive to elevate the lives of children in need – a commitment that has remained unchanged for more than 25 years. Some of the many medical, educational, and social services provided to needy children by qualified nonprofit organizations are made possible through funds generated from sponsorships, donations, and fund raising events. The events and promotions that help generate money are held across the country. Various chapters of the charity span cities where Speedway Motorsports owns racetracks, such as Atlanta, Georgia and Las Vegas, Nevada. The overall impact of the charities on the whole is undeniable, as millions upon millions of dollars are generated on a yearly basis. The charity associated with the Lowe's Motor Speedway donated more than $700,000 to 66 local groups in 2007. The Atlanta chapter recently rose close to $350,000 for local children's organizations. The Bristol chapter, which serves the youth in northeast Tennessee and southwest Virginia, was able to exceed previous expectations and broke records with $550,000 worth of donations to 82 charitable agencies. In the past, the various chapters have organized and held an assortment of unforgettable programs and events that include mentoring, the Beretta Celebrity Clay Shoot (presented by Synergy Properties), and the AMS Track Walk (Halloween Track or Treat at Atlanta Motor Speedway). Speedway Children's Charities SponsorsThe generosity of corporate sponsors and donations also allows the distribution of a greater amount of funds to worthy organizations. Not only does the overall charity follow an effective system of linking corporate sponsors with appropriate community organizations, but can also work with a company to create specific programs that maximizes their overall contribution. To date, a collection of influential sponsors that go beyond the world of motorsports work together to make a huge difference in the lives of their community, including Bank of America, National Rifle Associate (NRA), Sprint, Sherwin Williams Automotive Finishes, and SMI Properties.Return from Speedway Children's Charities to Speedway Guide
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