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When he issued a call to service for Americans in 2003, President Bush also announced the formation of the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation, designed to acknowledge how Americans are contributing to their communities. The council includes members from the business, entertainment, government, sports, and media sectors -- and Kasey Kahne and Michael W. Smith are among them.

 

Kasey grew up racing on dirt tracks in his hometown of Enumclaw, Wash. He made an impact almost immediately upon his arrival in USAC, winning the USAC Silver Crown Rookie of the Year award and the USAC Midget Series Championship and Driver of the Year awards during the early stages of his career. He moved to the NASCAR Busch series in 2002, and just two years later he moved up to the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series, where he was named Rookie of the Year. Kasey then launched the Kasey Kahne Foundation to raise money for charitable organizations that care for chronically ill children and their families.

 

Kasey talked about his work with the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation on "Ask the White House."

 

Listen to his public service announcement as part of the new radio campaign calling Americans to service.

 

 

 

The Kasey Kahne Foundation -- In addition to giving to organizations benefiting chronically ill kids, the Kasey Kahne Foundation also focuses on diversity awareness and creating opportunities for underprivileged boys and girls. The foundation has supported organizations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Team 950 -- Kasey teamed with 2005 NBA Rookie of the Year Emeka Okafor to create Team 950 (Kasey drives the number 9 Dodge, and Okafor wears jersey number 50 for the Charlotte Bobcats) -- a partnership to provide opportunities for kids in need. In partnership with the Charlotte Bobcats Foundation, the organization will give underprivileged youth 40 tickets to every Bobcats weekend home game of the 2005-06 season, as well as tickets to selected NASCAR events.

Auctions -- The foundation hosts regular auctions of autographed memorabilia to benefit a variety of Kasey's favorite charities.

 

 

 

CASE FOUNDATION: What sparked your interest in service and civic engagement?

 

KASEY KAHNE: Since I was a kid I knew I wanted to be a race car driver, and I knew I had to work hard to achieve my dream. There were so many people that helped me along the way -- family, friends, and neighbors. And without them I would not be where I am today. That's why I feel it's important to serve -- I owe my community at least as much as was given to me. And equally important, I hope I can inspire others to use their talents to serve and make a difference where they can.

 

 

CF: A recent study shows that Americans rather donate money than time. With such a demanding schedule, why is it important for you to give your time?

 

KK: I grew up watching people like Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart, but I didn't see them as just incredible drivers -- I saw them as incredible people as well. I learned from their example, and now from experience, the importance of being personally involved. I've learned the importance of using the gifts you've been given to raise awareness about important issues and to make a difference in the lives of others not as fortunate.

 

CF: What could we do to encourage more people -- young and old -- to volunteer and be civically engaged?

 

KK: There are so many athletes out there working individually to address problems in their community. They're building parks and bringing kids to games. Separately, they're doing amazing work. Imagine how much more good we could do if we came together. We could use our collective influence to bring more attention to the need for volunteers. We could create fun, engaging opportunities for fans to serve. If we can fill arenas and stadiums for races and games, I believe we could encourage those same millions to stand up and serve.