NASCAR fan, member of 'God's Pit Crew' wins Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award

As part of the NASCAR Awards last night, fan Judy Simmons was honored with the 2024 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award. She earned the honor through a fan vote based on her humanitarian work with God’s Pit Crew. bett

God’s Pit Crew is a non-profit that assists children and families after natural disasters. Judy Simmons, based out of Virginia, has volunteered with the group for six years. There are 1,500 volunteers in the organization.

On top of the award, Simmons earned a $100,000 donation from The NASCAR Foundation to God’s Pit Crew. That money is going to do a lot of good.

“This award means so much to God’s Pit Crew and me, and it will make a tremendous impact for the children we strive to provide healing to in the midst of disaster,” said Simmons. “With this award, we will be able to provide more hope and comfort to the young lives that need it most.”

Of course, NASCAR is more than happy to extend the award. The finalists for the award who didn’t win will still receive $25,000 in donations. Those will come from The NASCAR Foundation towards their respective charities.

“Judy is an incredible person doing impactful work for families that have experienced hardship due to natural disasters, especially during the difficult times faced in Western North Carolina this year,” said Nichole Krieger, The NASCAR Foundation Vice President and Executive Director. “The $100,000 she won for God’s Pit Crew will allow them to continue providing essential items for kids and families in need in times of major weather event or crisis. Both Judy and her organization are very deserving of this award.”

NASCAR Awards honor various drivers and others

Also as part of the NASCAR Awards, Greg Biffle was honored for his heroic efforts after Helene. The Rookies of the Year in their respective series were all given their trophies. All of the hard chargers and other assorted awards were given out as well.

For the seventh year in a row, Chase Elliott was named the Cup Series’ Most Popular Driver. Did it really feel like anyone else could unseat him? Whatever kind of voting operation they have in Dawsonville is working because these fans turn out for Elliott year after year.

Meanwhile, Justin Allgaier returned as the Most Popular Driver in the Xfinity Series. That is his fifth time winning the award, the second year in a row. Rajah Caruth was voted Most Popular Driver in the Truck Series. That is his first time receiving the honor.

A lot of awards and speeches were given on Friday night. Tomorrow is when NASCAR fans can catch it all. 3:00 PM EST on The CW.