One community sector that cole Galloway recently connected with is the world of auto racing. with Dover international speedway less than 50 miles from the UD campus, he saw potential for a collaboration with Dover Motorsports inc. The organization has strong ties to Autism Speaks, which could provide the perfect window for the racecar project.
“Racecars may offer children with autism a mode of play with the physical space that they need to be emotionally comfortable while enabling them to engage in a fun activity typical of their peers,” Galloway says.
Gary camp, senior director of communications for Dover international speedway, has already seen the positive effect of the car connection. “a parent whose child has autism recently told me that his kid has become who he is because of NASCAR – he knows all the drivers and their numbers and their cars. Kids learn through the sport – they love the cars and the speed, and they end up learning and becoming engaged as a result.”