The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation's "Racing For A Cause" program plays a vital role in raising awareness around pediatric cancer which harnesses the dynamic energy of race cars spotlighting this critical issue.
When fans spot the FOJ logo on a racer's car or uniform, it sparks conversations regarding our mission and becomes a force-multiplier for children and families facing pediatric brain tumors and other devastating childhood cancers. The FOJ adoption process symbolizes a lifelong commitment to bolstering and uplifting these resilient children and their families throughout their cancer journey.
The significance of our efforts is underscored by challenges imposed by HIPAA laws; this makes acquiring names of potential FOJ adoptees nearly impossible. Over the years, we've witnessed teams eagerly awaiting children/adoptees, rather than children waiting to join a team.
However, your invaluable donations empower us to overcome these obstacles - this extends our reach nationwide with each lap on the track which serves as a beacon of hope for these children and their families suffering from 'the beast.'
"Racing for a Cause" transcends mere advocacy; it fosters meaningful connections through our diverse programs which include: "Adopt A Child," "Safe On The Sidelines," a program for those siblings fighting the battle alongside of their brothers / sisters, as well as "Guardian Angel," which enables support via text / email.
Although many adoptions extend beyond racing to various sports teams - football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, softball, and volleyball - the primary focus remains on the child's key interests. Regardless of the sport or gender of the team, "Racing for a Cause," creates moments of joy, and a mental break, for both child and family alike, from the challenges, pain, and fear that they face daily. Every donation, regardless of its size, plays a crucial role in sustaining FOJ's presence on the track.
Please join us in making a difference and Keep FOJ on the Car!
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Clayton Otteau is an 11-year-old first generation Quarter Midget Racer from Bernardsville, NJ. Only after he started in QM’s did he learn that his grandfather used to drag race, while his great grandfather used to race Ford stock cars on dirt in Pennsylvania. He went go-karting for fun when he was 7, and his first time in the car he pulled the fastest lap time of the day and won his first race. This day solidified his love of driving and desire to learn more.
At 8 years old, Clayton started his rookie year of Quarter Midgets. After a lot of success in both red & blue rookie he chose to finish the 2021 season in Jr. Honda, knowing that his second-year racing would be a challenging one as he was pushed into seniors due to the birthday rule. By 2023 he was competing in both the Northeast Dirt Series and the NASCAR Youth Series (NYS) in 4 car classes, driving Senior Honda, Light 160, Senior Animal and Light World Formula.
Closing a successful fourth year in 2024, Clayton is looking forward to more success in 2025 as he continues competing in the NASCAR Youth Series on dirt, adding asphalt and junior sprints to the schedule. Clayton is proud to be chosen as one of 48 drivers in the Petty Performance EDGE program through the NYS. He is in the running for one of two spots to race in the Tulsa Shootout - which is one of the biggest dirt racing events in the country!
