NASCAR for the Community
A version of this story, which was first shared in May 2024, was featured in RTGC’s 2023-24 Annual Report on impact.
On May 26, almost 80,000 racegoers packed into Charlotte Motor Speedway to watch the 66th Coca-Cola 600, NASCAR’s longest race. While the sold-out crowd was treated to an exciting race with 21 lead changes, they also saw a video of Coca-Cola Consolidated, NASCAR, and Charlotte Motor Speedway volunteers providing repairs for a local Army veteran.
“I can’t believe this is happening,” said Deborah Stewart, a service-disabled Army veteran. “I really, really appreciate it. I wish I could do more and say more, but I love it.”
Repairs took several weeks in April to complete, including replacing carpet with updated flooring, installing new kitchen cabinets and appliances, upgrading light fixtures, landscaping, and adding accessibility features to the bathroom.
“Every day, I go from room to room,” said Stewart, who served in the Army from 1973-76. “I walk in, and I smile.”
Teaming with NASCAR and Charlotte Motor Speedway to help repair Stewart’s home was more than just a great opportunity to perform community services, explains Jennifer Rothacker, the director of community programming and projects at Coca-Cola Consolidated.
“It’s a chance to honor and thank Deborah for her service to our country,” Rothacker, said.
Veterans face unique challenges in maintaining their homes. Thirty-eight percent of all veterans who have returned home since 9/11 have a service-connected disability, meaning their homes require renovation and upgrades to accommodate their needs. One-and-a-half million veterans live below the federal poverty line, further limiting their ability to repair and maintain their homes. Nationally, Rebuilding Together has completed 10,500 rebuilding projects for veterans since 2010.
“It’s important to live in a safe and healthy home and not have to choose between putting food on the table or taking care of a critical repair,” said RTGC Executive Director Beth Morrison. “With these repairs, Ms. Stewart can safely and confidently stay in her home and community.”
NASCAR’s recognition of Stewart did not end with the repairs. She and a guest were invited to attend the race, where they were given tickets in the Coca-Cola Consolidated suite and rode in the pace car before the race. All of these things were just a small token to recognize her service to the country.
As Jason Avery, director of health and wellness for Coca-Cola Consolidated, said, “It’s about giving back to her for all she’s given for us.”
This story was featured in RTGC’s 2023-24 Annual Report. For more stories like this on our impact in the past fiscal year, please review the report.