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Source - Indy Racing League
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Friday, 17 April 2009 02:30 |
 Wheldon
“Today makes me very proud to be a national spokesperson for the Youth Challenge Program,” said Wheldon, who returned to Panther Racing for the 2009 season for the first time since making his debut with the team in 2002.
“I’m new to the program, and I’m new to the National Guard, but both are entities that do an unbelievable job for the community. Today is about the cadets. When you hear some of the stories, it puts into perspective what we do on track. This really gives you a reality check. I’m eager to be part of this program. These cadets inspire me, and I’m incredibly proud to be part of the program.”
Wheldon’s role will be to bring more awareness to the high school dropout epidemic that sees 7,000 students drop out of school each day through speaking engagements, personal appearances, public service announcements and media availabilities.
“I’ve learned a few things about Dan,” said Gail Dady, National Guard Youth Foundation board member.
“Dan makes the major decisions in his life with a very compassionate heart, and I think he executes those decisions with a very determined mind. He is a good fit for us. Dan is going to be an excellent role model for the participants in this program because he knows what it takes to succeed in life, hard work and dedication, and that’s exactly what it takes in this program.”
The National Guard Youth Challenge Program is a 17 month voluntary intervention program established to provide training and education for high school dropouts interested in pursuing higher education, attaining employment or joining the military.
The program operates in 27 states and Puerto Rico and has graduated more than 85,000 students since its founding in 1993.
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