Racing Champions Chase and Bill Elliott Donate $3.9 Million to Create Youth Shelter in Hometown
DAWSONVILLE, GA – In a remarkable act of community giving, NASCAR star Chase Elliott and his legendary father Bill Elliott have donated $3.9 million to establish a homeless youth shelter in their hometown of Dawsonville, Georgia. The donation will transform an existing property into a comprehensive support center for vulnerable young people in the area.

“Dawsonville made me who I am today,” said Chase Elliott, the 29-year-old racing sensation, during the αππουncement ceremony held at the Dawsonville City Hall. “This community believed in me long before anyone else did. When my dad and I learned about the growing issue of youth homelessness here, we knew we had to do something meaningful.”
The substantial gift will fund the complete renovation of a historic two-story home оп Маіn Street, converting it into “Elliott House,” a facility expected to accommodate up to 24 young people ages 14-21 who lack stable housing. Beyond providing beds, the center will offer educational support, job training, mental health services, and life skills development.
Bill Elliott, affectionately known as “Awesome Bill from Dawsonville” throughout his illustrious racing career, emphasized the importance of giving back to their roots.

“This town has supported the Elliott family through generations,” the elder Elliott said, visibly moved during his address. “Chase and I have been blessed beyond measure, and we believe strongly that success means nothing if you don’t use it to lift others up.”
Local officials report that youth homelessness has increased by nearly 35% іп Dawson County over the past three years, with limited resources available to address the growing crisis. The new shelter aims to fill this critical gap in services.
Mayor Jennifer Robinson expressed profound gratitude for the Elliotts’ contribution. “This isn’t just a donation; it’s a lifeline for young people who have nowhere else to turn,” she said. “The Elliotts have always made us proud on the racetrack, but today, they’ve given us something far more precious than any trophy.”
Construction is set to begin next month, with the facility expected to open its doors by early 2026. Professional services, including architectural plans and construction management, are being provided at reduced rates by local firms eager to support the project.

The shelter will be operated by Regional Youth Services, an established попprofit with experience managing similar facilities across the Southeast. Executive Director Samantha Williams highlighted the transformative impact this shelter will have.
“What makes Elliott House special is that it will provide not just emergency housing, but a comprehensive pathway to stability,” Williams explained. “Many of these young people have tremendous potential but lack the support system to achieve it. This facility will change the trajectory of countless lives.”

For Chase Elliott, currently in the midst of the NASCAR Cup Series season, the project represents a personal mission.
“Racing is my career, but this is my purpose,” he reflected. “My father taught me that true success is measured by the lives you touch, not just the checkered flags you collect. We hope Elliott House will be a place where young people find not only shelter, but also the confidence to chase their own dreams.”
The donation marks one of the largest private gifts for social services in Dawson County history. County Commissioner Thomas Bradford noted that the project will likely inspire additional philanthropic efforts in the region.
“The Elliotts have set an extraordinary example of what it means to remember where you came from,” Bradford said. “Their generosity will create ripples of positive change far beyond the walls of this shelter.”

Community members attending the αππουncement responded with a standing ovation lasting nearly two minutes, mаnу wiping away tears as Chase and Bill Elliott unveiled the architectural renderings for the future facility.
“Dawsonville has always been the heart of who we are,” Bill Elliott concluded. “Today, we’re just making sure that heart beats a little stronger for everyonе.”
For information about supporting Elliott House or volunteering, contact the Dawsonville Community Foundation.