NASCAR and the U.S. Army recently announced the launch of a new diversity outreach program designed to introduce inner city teenagers in three cities to the broad range of opportunities available in motorsports. The program will reach out to teens in Indianapolis, IN, Richmond, VA and Miami, FL, through a unique interactive off-site event, special at-track tours, and discussions with NASCAR and U.S. Army representatives prior to attending a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race. The program’s official launch was in Indianapolis on Friday, Aug. 1, 2003 and included more than 70 young adults from the Indianapolis Urban League and other community organizations, ages 16-22. The youngsters were transported to the Indianapolis Raceway Park for a day of at-track hospitality that included a NASCAR diversity and career opportunity presentation during dinner before the race, pit and garage tours and discussions with NASCAR industry representatives including Sam Belnavis, African American Owner of a NASCAR Winston Cup Series #54 team -BelCar ; Anthony Martin, Executive Director of the Urban Youth Racing School in Philadelphia; and Wayne Clapp, Executive Director of the Association for Diversity in Motorsports. The two other events will take place in Richmond on September 4th and in Miami on November 14th. “NASCAR is working directly with our entire industry to broaden our sport’s appeal and to help create meaningful opportunities for the many diverse communities throughout our country,” said Dora Taylor, head of NASCAR’s Diversity Affair’s Department. “We are calling on all members of the motorsports industry to promote diversity in every facet of their operations.” NASCAR and the U.S. Army will be working with the local affiliates of the National Urban League and other community organizations to identify the young adults for these exciting events. Much more information about NASCAR and the the U.S. Army’s plans at www.diversityinternships.com .(8-8-2003)
