PPG Automotive Refinish showed its continuing support for Speedway Children’s Charities (SCC) as it teamed with the national charity’s New Hampshire chapter for its annual Track Walk fundraiser during a recent NASCAR weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.
The walk, with PPG as its sole sponsor, took place at the track July 12 after a NASCAR Nationwide Series race. Approximately 200 participants walked the 1.058-mile circuit known as the Magic Mile. The event raised nearly $13,000, all of which goes directly to the SCC New Hampshire chapter.
“PPG’s participation is huge for us,” said Cheryl LaPrade, executive director of the New Hampshire chapter of the SCC. “We work as a team, and PPG’s support has been instrumental in getting us to where we are today. We are able to help children in need, and that could not have happened without our partnership with PPG. I can’t even begin to tell you how much that means to us.”
The Track Walk was not the only PPG-sponsored fundraising event of the weekend. During the first yellow-flag caution of the race, approximately 100 SCC volunteers – the "Red Bucket Brigade" – went through the stands passing a red bucket with PPG and SCC logos on it, giving racing fans an opportunity to contribute to the cause. Since 2011, the Brigade has added almost $130,000 to the chapter’s coffers. PPG lends support and resources to SCC, helping it organize and sponsor fundraising events.
“Working with the SCC is something we feel very strongly about,” said Mike Patenaude, PPG regional sales manager. “This is our community, we’re part of it, and while it may sound like a cliché, we want to contribute, to give something back. The good work done by the SCC cannot be overstated. These people care about the kids they help, and we are proud and fortunate to be able to be part of it.”
NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Greg Biffle joined the walkers for the entire lap around the track. Also taking part in the day’s activities were former Fox Sports NASCAR reporter and long-time SCC supporter Dick Berggen, entertainment personality Meghan Lamontagne and the New Hampshire track mascot, Milo the Moose. The SCC’s new executive director, Gen. Chuck Swannack, was also on hand to greet the public.
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