Last February, Iowa Speedway President Jimmy Small presented a check to the Newton Police Department on behalf of Iowa Speedway Cares – the Speedway’s charitable arm. The department, in partnership with the Newton Police Association, sought funds dedicated to the training and boarding needs of an 11-month old Border Collie mix named Smokey.
The exuberant and highly trained K9 assists the department with narcotics and bomb-sniffing operations. Smokey, a rescue dog from the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, has already proven himself to be a phenomenal resource for the community, and on Friday, he received a K9 Bulletproof Vest via a donation from Hogs 4 Dogs.
“We are extremely proud to have been chosen by Iowa Speedway to participate and partner with them in their 50/50 efforts,” Hogs 4 Dogs President John Hartley and Vice President Tammie Hartley said. “We want to take this time to thank all of our supporters and all those who have donated to make this presentation possible.”
The organization uses funds raised within the community to purchase vests for military or police dogs. The Hogs 4 Dogs motorcycle riders also support educational opportunities around low-cost spay and neuter programs. Hogs 4 Dogs staffed the 50 / 50 raffle during Wide Opening Weekend at Iowa Speedway in June. The group decided to use a portion of its donation from Iowa Speedway Cares to ensure that Smokey will be protected in even the most hazardous situations.
Iowa Speedway Cares is a Donor Advised Fund of the NASCAR Foundation, a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization based in Daytona Beach, FL. The primary focus of Iowa Speedway Cares is to support the local community, with an emphasis on youth-centered programs. The Speedway has a long-standing relationship with local first responders and law enforcement. The speedway’s donation was made as a way to show gratitude for the many volunteer hours made by the Newton Police Department during race season.
Iowa Speedway PR
