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NASCAR WCUP: Valvoline's NASCAR Tie-In Raises $202,740 For Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

3 December 1999

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

LEXINGTON, Ky. -- Mark Martin's on-track performance during the 1999 NASCAR Winston Cup Series, combined with contributions from Valvoline and NASCAR fans nationwide, raised a total of $202,740 for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Valvoline officials today announced the total donation from the first year of its "Caring Hands" program. Valvoline, primary sponsor of Martin's Valvoline Ford Taurus, said at the start of the 1999 season it would contribute $5,000 for each Martin Winston Cup win, $1,000 per pole position, and $20 for each lap led. In addition, Valvoline and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America hosted 15 trackside fundraisers where fans could participate in the effort.

"The 'Caring Hands' project was the most ambitious cause-related endeavor in our company's 133-year history," said Valvoline President James J. O'Brien, who is a real-life Big Brother. "We are very grateful that thousands of NASCAR fans around the country joined with us to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Mark Martin's performance not only added to the donations, but just as significantly, helped raise public awareness for this wonderful organization."

"Valvoline and Mark Martin are committed to helping Big Brothers Big Sisters raise funds and recruit caring adults to become mentors for children in need through our 'Caring Hands' partnership," said Judy Vredenburgh, national CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. "Mark Martin truly understands the importance of our program for youth through his own experiences with mentors over the years."

Martin, currently recovering from recent back surgery, finished third in the Winston Cup standings.

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