The Speedway Children’s Charities (SCC) Sonoma Chapter distributed $184,000 in grants to 40 Sonoma County youth-focused non-profits during a grant reception on Monday, December 9. Held at Sonoma Raceway’s Turn 11 event space, the reception celebrated local organizations that provide vital services to children and families in the area.
This year’s reception featured the inaugural presentation of the Earl Broderick “Building Futures” Grant, a $25,000 award honoring the late Earl Broderick’s legacy of dedication to youth development. Broderick, founder of Broderick Construction was a friend and fan of Sonoma Raceway with a long history of local philanthropy, though most who knew him did not know the scope of his charitable contributions until his passing. The new grant will be awarded annually to one Sonoma County youth-based 501(c)(3) non-profit with a focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) education and/or a program designed to support and guide youth to achieve a career in a STEAM-related field.
The first recipient of this prestigious grant is Chop’s Teen Club, a Santa Rosa-based non-profit committed to empowering teens through education, mentorship, and enrichment opportunities. “This funding will make a transformative impact on our Technology Lounge, helping us update and create a space that inspires and supports the more than 700 teens we serve,” said Melissa Stewart, Executive Director and 23-year veteran of Chop’s.
Guests were treated to hot laps around the road course, and were awarded their annual grants which will go towards programs directed at improving the lives of children and families in need. In the spirit of giving, attendees also contributed toys to support the Boys & Girls Club of Sonoma Valley’s Toy Drive, further spreading holiday cheer to local families in need.
“Sonoma County non-profits do incredible work every day, and this event is one way for us to show our appreciation and give back to the community,” said Brian Flynn, executive vice president and general manager of Sonoma Raceway and Speedway Children's Charities Sonoma board president. “It’s also a reminder of how, together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of children.”
The Speedway Children’s Charities Sonoma Chapter has a long-standing commitment to improving the quality of life of children in need, having distributed millions in grants since its inception. Funds for the grants come from various charity events throughout the year, and fan and driver participation in various events at Sonoma Raceway, such as NASCAR and NHRA.
For more information about SCC Sonoma, to donate or how to get involved, visit SpeedwayCharities.org.
