During its annual Night of Joy Grant Celebration presented by Coca-Cola Consolidated, Speedway Children’s Charities’ Charlotte chapter (SCC) brought the community together for an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer, gratitude and life-changing generosity. Following another record year of fundraising, officials announced that more than $2 million will be distributed to 95 deserving area nonprofits this holiday season — each one directly improving the lives of children across the region.
SCC volunteers and staff welcomed more than 400 children and charity representatives for a festive night complete with cookies, hot chocolate, visits with Santa Claus and a magical ride through more than 6 million sparkling lights at the Southeast’s largest drive-thru holiday light show, Speedway Christmas presented by Atrium Health.
“What hits me in the heart is how good God’s been to us. We have an amazing group of people at Speedway Children’s Charities, our Board of Trustees, executive Directors, our team and so many great sponsors that support SCC and the mission we’re on to support children in need,” said Speedway Children’s Charities Chairman, Marcus Smith. “We’re not here to see who gets the credit; we’re here to try and make a positive impact on children who need help. We all have stories, and every organization here has a story and a call, and we’re all working together to make the most positive impact for good.”
Throughout the year, SCC raises money through a wide range of community-driven fundraising events, from its annual black-tie Gala each spring to charity hot laps, a fall golf tournament and more. This year also marked SCC Charlotte’s first-ever Catwalk for Causes, which raised more than $450,000. Together, these efforts fueled a record-setting year of fundraising in 2025. These grants represent a broad and meaningful investment in the education, health, safety and overall well-being of children from a variety of communities.
Among the 95 organizations receiving support was One7 Ministries, whose work centers on “putting the Gospel into action” by serving refugee and immigrant families across Charlotte through transitional housing, soccer programs and youth outreach. Andrea Garvey, director of One7 Ministries, shared how meaningful SCC’s support is to their mission.
“Although we may be the hands and feet of Jesus, Speedway Children’s Charities is the vessel God is using to empower this work,” said Garvey. “Because of this support, children have full bellies, warm beds on cold nights, protection from abuse and a safe haven where they learn what family and sacrificial love truly mean. We’ve watched them grow spiritually, academically and emotionally, breaking generational chains and stepping confidently toward their dreams. Thank you to each of you who has given your time, your resources and your heart to help us change the Charlotte community.”
Adding to the night’s generosity, Coca-Cola Consolidated contributed $50,000, further amplifying SCC’s impact. Heather Hucks, vice president of consumer connections at Coca-Cola Consolidated, reflected on how every family and organization has a meaningful story and shared what a privilege it is to help ensure these funds go directly into the hands of those working to uplift children and bring those stories to life.
Jessica Fickenscher, national managing director for SCC, highlighted that none of this year’s giving would be possible without the dedication of countless volunteers, partners and supporters who give their time and heart to SCC’s mission. As part of this year’s celebration, Cameron and Pam Kirby were recognized as the David L. Johnston Volunteers of the Year for their unwavering commitment to the children SCC serves.
On a national scale, Speedway Children’s Charities will distribute more than $4.9 million across its 11 chapters in 2025, contributing to a cumulative total of over $79 million granted since its inception in 1982.
For more information on Speedway Children’s Charities or to learn how to volunteer or donate, visit www.speedwaycharities.org
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