FLORENCE, S.C. — Carlos Washington, a driving force for Florence youth and community service, has been named one of four finalists for the NASCAR Foundation’s 2024 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, honoring individuals who make a transformative impact in their communities.
The award honors individuals who embody values championed by NASCAR founder Betty Jane France. As a finalist for the award, Washington has already secured a $25,000 donation for the Boys and Girls Club of the Pee Dee Area.
The winning finalist will receive a $100,000 donation to further support their community efforts, and they are determined by public vote.
Washington’s commitment to local youth perfectly aligns with the ideals of Betty Jane France, as he has dedicated two decades to fostering leadership and providing opportunities for children in Florence.
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Washington’s community journey began after he moved to Florence and saw a need for youth sports coaching. “I came to Florence and saw the city needed a coach, so I said I’d coach,” he said.
Starting with basketball and football, his influence soon extended to various community initiatives, including board positions with the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Florence Corps of the Salvation Army, and Florence Youth Basketball.
He also serves as vice chairman of Virtus Academy, deepening his impact on local youth.
Through the Florence International Basketball Association, Washington has taken kids around the world, providing experiences that reach beyond sports. “It goes beyond basketball—we’re developing leaders,” he explained.
Neal Zimmerman, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of the Pee Dee Area, highlighted Washington’s influence: “Carlos’ basketball program skyrocketed our daily attendance. He brought in kids who otherwise had nowhere to go; 94% of our kids belong to no other youth organization.”
Washington also emphasizes academics, teaching his players valuable life skills. “If you’re going to play on my team, you must be passing,” he tells them, stressing discipline and academic excellence.
Community members, like Marshell McKever, praise Washington’s impact: “You can’t find anybody better than Carlos Washington. He just brings something out of you that you didn’t realize was in you.”
McKever added that she didn’t think her daughter would go as far as she did if it wasn’t for Washington’s program at the Florence Boys and Girls Club.
Voting is open through Nov. 18 at 6 p.m., with the winner announced at the NASCAR Awards in Charlotte on Nov. 22.To vote for Washington and learn more, visit NASCARfoundation.org/Award.
