Local cancer charity up for NASCAR award
Fort Washington charity, nominated by Pocono Raceway executives, aids families who have members stricken by cancer.
CHRIS McELWEE, of Fort Washington, is a finalist for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award. France, the widow of former NASCAR chairman Bill France Jr., chairs the NASCAR Foundation.
McElwee founded Michael's Way in 1996 after his brother Michael, 24, died of leukemia in 1983. Michael's Way has raised more than $6 million to assist families of cancer patients.
Since the foundation was formed, $400,000 has been distributed annually to families in need. Families receive a maximum of $3,000 per year, with 90 percent of families receiving assistance for multiple years.
McElwee said Michael's Way works with the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia,
St. Christopher's Hospital for Children,
Alfred I. du Pont Children's Hospital in
Delaware and the Ronald McDonald House to aid families who need financial assistance while their children are undergoing cancer treatment.
McElwee was nominated by Brandon and Nick Igdalsky, the top executives of
Pocono Raceway.
Each of the four finalists for the France award receives $25,000 for the charity of his or her choice. The winner will receive $100,000 for their charity. This year's winner will be announced Dec. 5 at the NASCAR awards dinner in Las Vegas.