Patrick is a top student — he was ranked valedictorian of his class — and he's an exceptional racecar driver. But one of his most important roles right now may be that of a spokesperson for Race Against Drugs (RAD).
As a member of RAD, Patrick volunteers his time and energy to attend local community events where he reminds youth how important it is to make positive choices, like saying no to drugs.
He created his own "chapter" in South Florida four years ago when his stock car racing career crossed paths with RAD. Since then, Patrick has attended over 100 community events including Relay for Life, Publix's Holiday Fest, a nationally-televised Monster Jam Pit Party, and the local police department's Halloween and Safety Festival. He's also been a part of several trackside promotions and displays at racing events throughout the year where his message has reached thousands of people.
Patrick plans events and coordinates the materials he needs to complete each exhibit. Suited up in his driver's uniform and standing by his racecar, he easily attracts people in the crowd, and he leaves everyone with a lasting impression through his detailed presentations and question-and-answer sessions where he describes how drugs can close the door of opportunity and ruin the life of a drug user along with his or her family.
Patrick says the most important part of his presentation includes the pledge sheets he has children sign that makes them promise to lead a life free of drugs and to stay on the right track.
Feedback from event managers and parents confirm it is a positive and motivational experience — one they are confident their child will remember for a long time.
Patrick took the popularity of his sport to cature the attention of local youth and he hopes that by serving as a role model, he will help others achieve their goals and dreams and become true assets to their community, the same way he has. Patrick will be attending Harvard University this fall.
Congratulations to Patrick and all his hard work!
