For the sixth straight year, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., is rallying NASCAR fans to support members of the U.S. armed forces through its “Goodyear Gives Back” charitable program benefiting the Support Our Troops organization.
To kick off the program, Goodyear is transforming its NASCAR race tires by replacing the “Eagle” sidewall design with “Support Our Troops” messaging on all tires used during Memorial Day weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. This effort coincides with the launch of Goodyear's charity auction at www.Goodyear.com/GivesBack, which features autographed NASCAR memorabilia, VIP race experiences and rides on the Goodyear Blimp.
Proceeds benefit Support Our Troops, a nonprofit organization that works to bolster the morale and well-being of America’s troops and their families. To-date, Goodyear Gives Back has generated nearly $1 million in cash and product donations to support the cause.
“For the past six years, the Goodyear Gives Back program has helped us bring race fans and the NASCAR community together in showing support for troops and their families,” says Kris Kienzl, Goodyear’s NASCAR marketing manager. “The response has been overwhelming. More than 40 NASCAR teams, sponsors and tracks have joined this year’s effort by providing items for our charity auction and spreading the word among fans.”
Fans can get involved by visiting www.Goodyear.com/GivesBack through July 6, 2015, to bid on unique NASCAR autographed items, Support Our Troops tires and VIP experiences, or purchase Support Our Troops merchandise, or make a direct donation.
“The Goodyear Gives Back program has played a critical role in raising awareness and funds to better the lives of service men and women and their families,” says Martin C. Boire, executive director of Support Our Troops. “It’s a great symbol of support for those who sacrifice so much for our freedom.”
This year’s program is also a cornerstone of the “NASCAR: An American Salute” initiative, which highlights the sport’s ongoing support of the U.S. armed forces and veterans.
“The Goodyear Gives Back program continues to be one of the most visible symbols of military support during the Memorial Day race weekend,” says NASCAR Vice Chairman Mike Helton. “We hope the combined efforts of Goodyear and NASCAR will encourage fans to show their support for the men and women who serve or have served our nation.”
For more information about Goodyear or its products, go to www.goodyear.com. For more information about Support Our Troops, visit SupportOurTroops.org.
