The Chase Elliott Foundation has teamed up once again with NAPA and Hendrick Motorsports to present the ninth edition of its DESI9N TO DRIVE art program in collaboration with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Since its launch in 2017, this initiative has raised and donated nearly $500,000 to support Children’s, demonstrating a sustained commitment to pediatric healthcare causes.
For the NASCAR Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway on June 28, the No. 9 car and Chase Elliott’s racing uniform will prominently feature artwork designed by a pediatric cancer patient receiving treatment at Children’s. Fans attending the race or following online can participate in a sweepstakes to win Elliott’s race-worn uniform or an exclusive meet-and-greet with the driver, with all proceeds benefitting the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s, opened recently on a new hospital campus.
Meaning Behind the Annual DESI9N TO DRIVE Program
Chase Elliott, a native of Dawsonville, Georgia, emphasized the personal and emotional significance of the program:
“Every year, the DESI9N TO DRIVE program reminds me why I love what I do,”
he said.
“These kids pour their hearts into their artwork, and getting to meet them and see their creativity up close is incredibly inspiring. Partnering with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and NAPA at my home track always makes this one of the most meaningful weekends of the season.”
The campaign remains a highlight on Elliott’s calendar, intertwining his racing passions with efforts to uplift children facing serious health challenges.
Inspiring Artwork by Pediatric Patient Rhealynn Mills Selected
This year’s theme, Dream Big, inspired numerous submissions from children receiving care at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The chosen design was created by 11-year-old Rhealynn Mills, a pediatric cancer patient who faced a significant medical journey after being diagnosed with Metastatic Osteosarcoma in October 2022. Following an injury while playing softball and a second opinion at Children’s, Rhealynn underwent the amputation of her right leg and has since had nineteen surgeries, receiving a prosthetic leg and striving to return to the softball field.
Rhealynn’s artwork depicts her aspiration to become a nurse who works with pediatric patients like herself, aiming to help combat cancer in the future. Her design includes hopeful symbols like gold childhood cancer ribbons, pediatric oncology references, and elements such as stethoscopes, heart monitors, and bandages. The No. 9 Chevrolet, sponsored by NAPA Auto Parts, is adorned with messages of encouragement including Cure Cancer and Helping Kids Like Me, along with the Bible verse Psalm 46:5:
“God is within you, you will not fail,”
symbolizing Rhealynn’s strength and faith throughout her recovery.
Leading Voices Express Strong Support for the Collaboration
Emily Schneider, Senior Director of Marketing at NAPA, highlighted the importance of this partnership:
“It’s a privilege to once again team up with Chase and his foundation to support the incredible work being done at Children’s,”
she stated.
“We’re excited to unveil the inspiring designs on the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet and are proud to play a part in driving awareness and support through this year’s sweepstakes.”
Beth Buursema, Director of Corporate and Community Giving at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, also praised the program’s impact:
“We’re incredibly grateful to partner with the Chase Elliott Foundation for the ninth year of DESI9N TO DRIVE,”
she remarked.
“This special collaboration gives our patients a chance to dream big, express themselves, and be part of something unforgettable. With one of the largest pediatric cancer and blood disorder programs in the country, we’re proud to see these designs bring hope to our families and help us continue our mission to make kids better today and healthier tomorrow.”
How Fans Can Participate and Support the Cause
Race fans and supporters can visit desi9ntodrive.org to learn more about the program and enter the fundraising sweepstakes. The sweepstakes opened on June 11 and will remain active until July 9, offering fans a unique opportunity to support pediatric cancer care, engage with the racing community, and potentially win exclusive race memorabilia and experiences with Chase Elliott.
The continued partnership among the Chase Elliott Foundation, NAPA, Hendrick Motorsports, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta demonstrates a meaningful synergy between motorsports and charitable efforts, using the sport’s platform to inspire hope and raise significant funds for children battling cancer and blood disorders.
