In 2018, Julie Wooldridge co-founded Hope of Mooresville to provide temporary safe shelter and essential support services for homeless women and their families.
Currently, Wooldridge is being honored by The NASCAR Foundation as one of four finalists for the 14th annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award.
“It still feels surreal to me,” Wooldridge stated. “This award is the largest recognition I’ve ever received, and as a NASCAR enthusiast, it’s a dream come true. More importantly, being a finalist for The NASCAR Foundation Betty Jane France Award brings significant exposure to HOMe (Hope of Mooresville) and our mission to assist homeless women and children in our community. We are thankful to The NASCAR Foundation for this chance.”
The award finalists are devoted NASCAR fans who positively impact children’s lives through local organizations focused on youth.
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Wooldridge and her fellow finalists, Tammy Raulerson, Judy Simmons, and Carlos Washington, were pleasantly surprised during a live broadcast of “Speedway with Dave Moody” on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. The segment celebrated their initiatives to enhance the lives of children in their communities. Defending NASCAR Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney also joined to congratulate them.
“This year’s finalists truly embody the spirit of generosity found within our NASCAR community. Their volunteer efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of children across our local racing communities, a commitment to service championed by Betty Jane France,” stated Mike Helton, chairman of The NASCAR Foundation. “Tammy, Judy, Carlos, and Julie inspire us all. We encourage NASCAR fans everywhere to take the time to learn about these remarkable finalists and cast their votes for this year’s award recipient.”
Each finalist secures a minimum contribution of $25,000 for their organization, while the overall winner will receive a $100,000 donation from The NASCAR Foundation to further their initiatives.
The recipient of the award will be determined by a public vote.
The ultimate winner will be announced based on an ongoing online vote. To view videos featuring the finalists, visit NASCARfoundaton.org/Award to watch clips highlighting each finalist’s influence on children, while voting daily through Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. ET for your preferred finalist, as noted in a release from The NASCAR Foundation.
The overall winner will be revealed during the NASCAR Awards ceremony in Charlotte on Nov. 22.
Lucynda Caceres, the Development Coordinator of HOMe, expressed that being a finalist and having a chance to win the award would enable the organization to provide even more support for local women.
“As a small, relatively new grassroots nonprofit, receiving the $25,000 from The NASCAR Foundation would greatly benefit those we serve immediately,” said Caceres. “HOMe has just opened its second house, and this donation will help us continue offering vital resources to those in need.”
“Winning the $100,000 prize would transform the circumstances for HOMe and the children we support. We receive numerous calls and emails daily from families seeking assistance. Expanding our ability to serve more families would mean everything to us and the community of Mooresville.”
The additional finalists for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award include:
Tammy Raulerson from College Station, Texas: A dedicated volunteer who has spent over a decade organizing family camp weekends and offering support, community, and joy to families facing pediatric cancer through the Periwinkle Foundation.
Judy Simmons from Axton, Virginia: A volunteer who has contributed to God’s Pit Crew, a disaster response team of more than 1,500 volunteers, for six years. In her role, Judy leads teams to provide critical needs to families and children in crisis situations.
Carlos Washington from Florence, South Carolina: A volunteer who has devoted 20 years to the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area, which offers developmental programs that foster a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence among children.
To learn more about The NASCAR Foundation’s Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award and the 2024 finalists, please visit NASCARfoundation.org/Award.
Julie Wooldridge Named Finalist for Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award for Service to Homeless Women and Families
In a heartwarming recognition of her tireless efforts, Julie Wooldridge has been named a finalist for the prestigious Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award. This accolade honors individuals who have made significant contributions to humanitarian service, particularly in support of homeless women and families. Wooldridge’s work stands as a beacon of hope for many in her community, and this recognition shines a light on the pressing issue of homelessness.
About the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award
The Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award is presented annually by the NASCAR Foundation to individuals who exemplify the spirit of giving and altruism. Named after Betty Jane France, a noted philanthropist and advocate for children and families in need, this award aims to celebrate those who dedicate their lives to serving others.
Criteria for Selection
- Significant community impact
- Demonstrated commitment to humanitarian work
- Involvement in initiatives that promote social change
Julie Wooldridge’s Impact on Homeless Women and Families
Wooldridge has been a relentless advocate for homeless women and families for over a decade. Through her various initiatives, she has provided not only shelter but also resources aimed at long-term sustainability. Her approach encompasses several key areas:
1. Emergency Shelter Programs
Wooldridge spearheaded the establishment of local emergency shelters, providing safe spaces for women and families in crisis. These shelters are equipped with:
- 24/7 access to support services
- Meal programs and nutritional education
- Access to mental health resources
2. Employment Training and Job Placement
Understanding that economic independence is crucial for a sustainable solution to homelessness, Julie initiated several employment training programs. These programs help participants to:
- Develop job skills
- Prepare for interviews
- Connect with local employers
3. Family Development Services
Wooldridge focuses on holistic support for families, offering resources that cater to both children and parents. Services include:
- After-school programs for children
- Parenting workshops
- Health and wellness seminars
Case Studies: Transforming Lives
The impact of Julie Wooldridge’s initiatives can be seen through numerous success stories. Here are a few remarkable case studies:
| Case Study | Background | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Maria’s Journey | A single mother of two, Maria faced eviction. | With housing support and job training, she secured stable employment and housing. |
| The Johnson Family | A family of four, experiencing temporary homelessness. | Access to shelter and family services allowed them to regain stability. |
| Linda’s Empowerment | A former victim of domestic violence seeking a fresh start. | Through counseling and employment resources, Linda now runs her own business. |
First-Hand Experiences with Julie Wooldridge
Members of the community share their experiences with Julie and her programs. Many describe her as a compassionate leader who listens and responds to the needs of those she serves.
“Julie changed my life. I was lost and didn’t know where to turn until I found her shelter. She believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.” - Sarah T.
“Her training program gave me the skills I needed to build a career. I now have a job and a place to call home.” – Michael R.
Benefits of Supporting Homeless Women and Families
Supporting initiatives like those led by Julie Wooldridge yields numerous benefits for both individuals and communities, including:
- Empowerment: Providing resources empowers individuals to achieve self-sufficiency.
- Community Health: Reducing homelessness leads to improved public health and safety.
- Economic Growth: By assisting individuals in finding jobs, communities can stimulate the local economy.
How to Get Involved
Community members can play a vital role in supporting Wooldridge’s initiatives and the broader cause of aiding homeless women and families. Here are some practical ways to contribute:
1. Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering at local shelters or training programs can make a significant difference:
- Help with food distribution
- Assist with job training sessions
- Offer mentorship to individuals in need
2. Donate Resources
Donations of various forms are always appreciated:
- Clothing and hygiene products
- Monetary contributions to fund programs
- Furniture and household items for families transitioning into permanent housing
3. Advocate for Change
Raise awareness about homelessness in your community. Use social media to spread the word and encourage others to get involved.
Conclusion
Julie Wooldridge’s recognition as a finalist for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award serves as an inspiration to all. Her unwavering commitment to serving homeless women and families reflects the power of compassion and action in creating meaningful change. By supporting her efforts and similar initiatives, communities can collectively work towards a future where everyone has a place to call home.
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