Goody’s® Headache Powders Grant Program Brings Together NASCAR’s Bill Lester and BCC Derby Car  Racers

NASCAR^® Craftsman Truck Series^TM driver Bill Lester, who made history recently when he became the first African American driver to qualify for a NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race in over 20 years, has excelled in the fast pace world of racing. Not only has Lester made his mark in racing but he’s also made it in the community through his commitment to a variety of causes.

On Wednesday, May 17, 2006, Lester continued to foster his commitment to bettering the community along with Drive for Diversity® participants Chris Bristol, Allison Duncan and John Boyd.  These NASCAR drivers and crew member took time to speak to youth participants in the Bethlehem Center’s Annual Great Derby Race which was sponsored in part by Goody’s Headache Powders “Finding A Solution Together” (F∙A∙S∙T) Grant Program.

The Great Derby Race recognized 16 Bethlehem Center after-school children ages 12-14 who have excelled in school and character.  Children had an opportunity to build their very own Derby car with a parent or adult of their choice.  Lester and the NASCAR team spent time with the youth giving racing tips and helping them with the construction of their cars for the big race on Saturday, June 3. 

The NASCAR Day at the Bethlehem Center of Charlotte was made possible through the Goody’s Headache Powders F∙A∙S∙T Grant Program, a fast-acting program that provides grants to support organizations that have a constructive impact and help meet the needs of the African-American community.  Since the program’s inception in 2004, Goody’s has awarded nearly $65,000 to organizations across the area, including the Bethlehem Center of Charlotte (a February 2006 recipient). The $5,000 grant provided funds for the cars, awards, t-shirts and other elements for the Great Derby Race as well as funding for new computers for the Center’s computer lab.   

“When we read the proposal for the Great Derby Race, we knew we had to get involved.  Bringing together Goody’s, NASCAR and the Bethlehem Center is truly an example of “finding a solution together” to better the community.  It was a perfect fit for Goody’s Headache Powders- which is all about speed, to sponsor this event,” says, Darren Singer, Vice President for Goody’s Marketing.