November 6, 2026

16th Annual Driven To Give Gala Raises $700,000 for Children in Need


16th Annual Driven To Give Gala Raises $700,000 for Children in Need

The Dale Jr. Foundation’s signature fundraising event, the Driven To Give Gala, celebrated its 16th anniversary in 2026, raising an incredible $700,000 to support children in need. Held at Dale and Amy Earnhardt’s Old Town Whisky River, the annual event brought together generous supporters, corporate partners, and friends for an unforgettable evening dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children.

The evening featured a special music performance by The Red Clay Strays, along with live and silent auctions and other exciting fundraising opportunities. The generosity and enthusiasm of those in attendance helped make this year’s event another tremendous success, furthering the Foundation’s mission of providing hope and opportunities to children facing challenging circumstances.

In celebration of 16 years of Driven To Give, The Dale Jr. Foundation proudly recognized the many corporate partners and sponsors whose continued support has helped make the event possible year after year. Their unwavering commitment, along with the generosity of returning sponsors and new partners, continues to make a lasting impact on the children and charities served by the Foundation.

In addition to the evening’s auctions and entertainment, five charitable partners were recognized for their meaningful work, alongside children whose lives they impact. The organizations honored included Children’s Hope Alliance, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Pinky Swear, Classroom Central and Backpack Beginnings.

The funds raised through Driven To Give will benefit charitable organizations working to improve the lives of children and families in need. From providing essential resources and educational opportunities to addressing hunger, health and wellness, and other critical needs, the proceeds will help bring hope and meaningful change to communities across the country.

The Dale Jr. Foundation is dedicated to its key areas of giving: Empowerment, Education, Wellness, Hunger, and Hope. Through its charitable partnerships, the Foundation strives to provide underprivileged youth with the resources to build confidence, strengthen their education, and create opportunities to achieve extraordinary goals.

Sixteen years of Driven To Give, and $700,000 more reasons to spread hope. The Dale Jr. Foundation is incredibly grateful to everyone who continues to make this event possible and help change the lives of children in need.

ABOUT THE DALE JR FOUNDATION:

The Dale Jr. Foundation is a charity dedicated to giving underprivileged individuals with a focus on youth, the resources to improve their confidence and education, and the opportunity to achieve extraordinary goals, having raised more than $11 million since its inception. The Dale Jr. Foundation has made a monumental impact in the local community since its beginning. Dedicated to giving underprivileged individuals, with a focus on youth, the resources to achieve extraordinary goals, TDJF has contributed to more than 400 charities nationally and locally, including The Make-A-Wish Foundation, Blessings in a Backpack, Hope of Mooresville, FeedNC, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Mooresville Christian Mission. For more information, visit www.thedalejrfoundation.org.

MEDIA INFORMATION:
Jenni Leibee
Director, The Dale Jr. Foundation
704.799.4852
[email protected]