Judy Simmons received the 2024 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award at the NASCAR Awards. Fans voted for her based on her work with God’s Pit Crew, a non-profit that helps families affected by natural disasters. Simmons has volunteered with this organization for six years. God’s Pit Crew has 1,500 volunteers.
As part of the award, NASCAR Foundation donated $100,000 to God’s Pit Crew. Simmons stated, “This award means so much to God’s Pit Crew and me. It will make a tremendous impact for the children we strive to support in times of disaster.”
The other finalists who did not win also received $25,000 towards their charities. Nichole Krieger, Vice President of The NASCAR Foundation, praised Simmons’ work, especially during recent challenging seasons in Western North Carolina. She remarked that the $100,000 will help provide essential items for affected families.
What is the significance of the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award for organizations like God’s Pit Crew?
Interview with Judy Simmons: Recipient of the 2024 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award
Interviewer: Congratulations on receiving the 2024 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, Judy! Can you tell us what this award means to you and God’s Pit Crew?
Judy Simmons: Thank you! This award means so much to God’s Pit Crew and me. It’s a recognition of the hard work and dedication our team puts into helping families affected by natural disasters. The $100,000 donation from the NASCAR Foundation will make a tremendous impact for the children we strive to support in times of disaster. It will help us provide essential items and support services that are desperately needed in those moments.
Interviewer: Can you share a bit about your experience with God’s Pit Crew and the work you’ve done over the past six years?
Judy Simmons: Certainly! I’ve been blessed to be a part of God’s Pit Crew for six years now. Our organization comprises around 1,500 volunteers who come together to assist families when they are at their most vulnerable. Whether it’s providing food, clothing, or essential household items, our mission is to bring hope and help during crises. I’ve seen firsthand the difference our efforts make in people’s lives, and it’s incredibly fulfilling.
Interviewer: What do you believe sets God’s Pit Crew apart from other organizations?
Judy Simmons: One of the key elements that sets us apart is our dedicated volunteer base. Our volunteers come from various backgrounds, and they all share a common goal: to serve those in need. We operate with compassion and urgency, ensuring that we can respond quickly to disasters. Additionally, we focus not just on immediate relief but also on long-term recovery and support for the families we help.
Interviewer: Nichole Krieger, Vice President of The NASCAR Foundation, highlighted your work during the recent challenging seasons in Western North Carolina. Can you talk about some specific initiatives that God’s Pit Crew undertook there?
Judy Simmons: Yes, the recent seasons were indeed challenging due to natural disasters affecting many families in Western North Carolina. We organized several relief efforts, including food drives, distribution of hygiene products, and reconstruction assistance for homes. Our team worked tirelessly, often in collaboration with local agencies and organizations, to ensure that families had the support they needed. It’s about building community resilience and helping them rebuild their lives.
Interviewer: Looking ahead, how do you plan to utilize the funds awarded to God’s Pit Crew from this recognition?
Judy Simmons: The funds will be directed towards enhancing our current programs and expanding our outreach efforts. We intend to invest in more comprehensive support systems for the children and families we assist, including educational resources and emotional support. It’s essential to us that we not only provide immediate relief but also contribute to long-term recovery.
Interviewer: Any final thoughts or messages you’d like to share with our readers?
Judy Simmons: I want to express my gratitude to everyone who voted for me and supported God’s Pit Crew. Every helping hand makes a difference, and we are incredibly thankful for the community behind us. I encourage anyone who is interested in volunteering or supporting our mission to reach out. Together, we can continue to bring hope and healing to those in need. Thank you!
Interviewer: Thank you, Judy, for sharing your inspiring journey and the important work you do with God’s Pit Crew. Congratulations once again on the award!
In addition to the humanitarian awards, the event recognized several drivers. Greg Biffle received an award for his bravery after Hurricane Helene. Chase Elliott was named the Cup Series’ Most Popular Driver for the seventh year in a row. Justin Allgaier won the same title in the Xfinity Series for the fifth time. Rajah Caruth was recognized as the Most Popular Driver in the Truck Series for the first time.
The NASCAR Awards featured many speeches and honors. Fans can view the event again at 3:00 PM EST on The CW.
