For the past eleven years the NASCAR Foundation has presented the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award to someone who upholds, France’s legacy.

On November 16, The Foundation named Louisville’s Jeff Harmon as the 2021 winner of the award.  The Kentucky native is a member of Down Syndrome Louisville.  Along with winning the award, Harmon receives a $100,000 for the charity.

Harmon spoke on winning the award saying, “I’m so excited and humbled to win this award.  The other three finalists were all deserving as well, I’m blessed, what an honor. The $100,000 will go a long way in helping Down Syndrome of Louisville grow and expand to help even more kids. Thank you to The NASCAR Foundation and all who voted!”  Harmon has been a part of Down Syndrome Louisville for 18 years when he first started as a volunteer after the birth of his son Justin, who was born with Down Syndrome.

Harmon noted that DSL plans on using the $100,000 donation to upgrade the playground, renovate the sensory room, and launch satellite campuses to reach more children.

The BJFHA is a fan voted award. 

Harmon beat out Erin Collins of the Dallas Hearing Foundation, Jaeleen Davis of Maggie’s Wigs 4 Kids of Michigan, and Beverly Hodson of Richie McFarland Children’s Center for the honour.  Each of the other three finalists will receive a $25,000 donation from the NASCAR Foundation for their charities.

NASCAR Foundation Chariman Mike Helton spoke on the award presentation saying, “we’re very proud to present this award to Jeff Harmon, he has been doing extraordinary work for Down Syndrome of Louisville and exemplifies the values of Betty Jane France.  Our fans had a tough decision because all four are passionate people who devote hours of their time to help their respective organizations. We’re delighted to present this recognition to Jeff to honor the work he’s doing in the Louisville community.”