Howell, MI — September 23, 2026
As we reported a few days ago, Erik Jones was in town last night in support of his Erik Jones Foundation. The charitable organization has a threefold mission, known as “Three Reasons to Race.” A discussion with Erik was hosted by the former Motor Racing Network race reporter Jeff Striegle. Erik spoke in depth about his motivations for selecting the three focus areas of his Foundation.
Igniting Children’s Passion for Reading
Some of Erik’s fondest childhood memories revolved around his father reading books to him. It was not until he moved away from home that he realized this does not happen in every family.
“Many of us assume reading is just something you do. You grow up, learn how to read, and everybody’s a decent reader, but it’s not like that. The number of people who are illiterate or have low literacy is surprising.” – Erik Jones
“The US Department of Education states that one in five American adults has “low literacy.” This reality impacts personal income, health, and national economic growth. The #ReadwithErik program helps children embrace reading, ensuring they reach their full potential and preventing the adverse outcomes of illiteracy.”
Erik regularly reads to children’s groups, at the race track, during select appearances and organized school visits. In May of this year he visited Durand’s Bertha Neal Elementary for such an event.
Encouraging Early Cancer Detection and Care
Erik lost his father to cancer just as he was making inroads into NASCAR’s top national series racing events. Erik’s mother is a cancer survivor and a avid supporter of the Foundations efforts in regard to early cancer detection and care.
“Most people get to enjoy their dad for most of their life, right? I never expected cancer to steal mine when I was just 19 and I was having to go through it. It was just not right” – Erik Jones
“With nearly 2 million diagnoses yearly, 600,000 annual deaths, and the reality that 40% of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer, this insidious disease’s impact is nearly universal. For Erik, cancer is a very personal issue. The foundation’s cancer efforts focus on impacting the preventable forms of the disease.”
Promoting Animal Welfare
This is an easy concept for most of us to identify with. Especially those who have the opportunity to have a pet involved in their lives.
“The bond between animals and people is part of what it means to be a human. I know the joy my pets bring to my life, and I want to help more animals find good homes and be safe.” – Erik Jones
“Pet ownership has many benefits for animals and owners alike. From increasing opportunities to exercise, reducing blood pressure, relieving feelings of loneliness, and improving cognitive function in older adults, pet ownership is a win-win for the pet and owner. As a long-time “pet parent,” Erik is passionate about connecting people to pets. The foundation focuses on supporting organizations that promote pet adoption and its benefits.”
Other Event Highlights
Jason Woolford of the Michigan House of Representatives presented Erik with a Special Certificate from the State of Michigan honoring his charitable work.
A delicious dinner was served to guests and supporters of the foundation.
Acclaimed Nashville singer-songwriter Kendell Marvel entertained the gathering with live music and stories from a career that included songs recorded by Chris Stapleton, George Strait, Jamey Johnson and others.
Joe Fowler, President of Michigan International Speedway, was on-hand to provide two tickets and VIP Pit Passes for the 2027 Cup Series race to be auctioned off benefitting the Foundation. When bidding between two potential buyers reached $2,100 one of the bidders dropped out at that price. Joe asked the second bidder if he would purchase the package at that price. The potential buyer agreed and Joe provided a second set of tickets and passes, doubling the donation to Erik’s Foundation.
The evening was capped off with guests donating funds to purchase chances on picking the winner of a six-car race. The competition was begun with the green flag being waved by Erik’s two-year-old son David.
Donating to the Erik Jones Foundation
If you would like to join in the the threefold work of the Erik Jones foundation financial contributions are gratefully accepted. Donations not only provide crucial funding but also allow you to commemorate special people or events in your life. If your donation is made in memory of someone or to celebrate a significant moment, the foundation will acknowledge it on their social media channels, along with a heartfelt thank you. Remember, donations to the Erik Jones Foundation are eligible for a tax deduction to the full legal extent. Click the link to access the Foundation’s Donation page.
Follow Erik’s racing endeavours in The Lasco Press as we cover the entire NASCAR Cup Series circuit weekly.
The Lasco Press would like to acknowledge the generous donation of Fratarcangeli Wealth Management which provided a reservation for us to attend the Erik Jones Foundation event.
