When SRO America arrives at Circuit of The Americas for the second race weekend event of the 2026 season, the on-track GT racing action in the heart of Texas will be accompanied by something equally meaningful happening behind the scenes. The Driven to Care charitable program will be up and running in the paddock, continuing its mission of opening doors for the next generation of aspiring automotive and motorsports professionals.
Powered by the Footprints Foundation of Illinois, Driven to Care represents a legacy built on generosity, mentorship, and opportunity. Originally launched by the Weinberger family through Continental Motors Group, the initiative famously gave away 73 refurbished vehicles to individuals and families in need. Today, that very same spirit lives on through education, empowerment, and career access.
Following the passing of John Weinberger, his wife Lisa carried the vision forward by expanding Driven to Care into a program that not only supports students financially but immerses them directly into the automotive world, giving them a firsthand view at the realm of possibilities within the industry. At its core, Driven to Care’s Student Experience program is about providing access and placing students into the environments where careers are built.
Students are introduced to a wide variety of roles and paths within the industry, while encouraging them to explore all avenues and immerse themselves in the environment. Notably, the program goes beyond the purely technical realm by connecting participants with mentors in various fields, highlighting the diverse ecosystem that contributes to the success of motorsports as a whole. Since its inception, Driven to Care has impacted and helped more than a thousand students by not only inspiring them, but equipping them with tangible next steps and professional networking connections.
During GT World Texas, Driven to Care will host over 60 students on site at Circuit of The Americas for a full-day immersive experience on Friday, April 24th. The agenda is designed to provide a comprehensive look at the motorsports industry from multiple perspectives, offering students firsthand insight into what it takes to compete at the highest levels of racing. They will be accompanied by important leaders in the paddock and guest speakers representing various roles, including engineers, race control officials, and team personnel.
Beyond the formal classroom-style sessions, students will also have the chance to experience guided pit tours, giving them a rare, behind-the-scenes look at professional race teams at work. The program is rounded out with paddock walks, networking opportunities, and informal interactions with the intention of leaving lasting impressions for the next generation.
Driven to Care’s presence at GT World Texas underscores a broader commitment within the SRO America paddock to not only fuel competition, but to uphold the importance of building community and future growth.
For more information about the Driven to Care program and its initiatives, as well as sponsorship opportunities, visit https://www.driventocare.org/