Champion Racer. Philanthropist.

When you ask the simple question, "Who is Sam Hornish, Jr.?" most people would automatically reply with one of the following descriptions: Indy 500 winner, IndyCar champion, or local hometown hero. What most people don’t realize is philanthropist should also be used to describe Sam. Wise and generous beyond his years, Sam contributes both time and money to several charities and charitable projects, many close to his home in northwest Ohio. Since 2001, Sam’s charitable contributions tally nearly $2 million and continue to rise. His efforts have become so widespread that Sam created The Sam Hornish, Jr. Foundation to oversee the charitable work.

Among his current projects is a senior center in his hometown of Defiance, Ohio in memory and honor of his grandmother who passed before his Indy 500 win. Other charities that Sam is involved include a heart center located at the Defiance Medical Center, a fitness center at his former high school, a youth league at the Defiance YMCA, a chapel at a local hospice center as well as Shriners Hospitals for Children, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Special Olympics, CARA Charities, St. Jude’s Hospital for Children and the Sam Schmidt Foundation.

One of the main events for The Sam Hornish, Jr. Foundation is the annual Sam Hornish Jr. Charity Bowling Tournament held before the June IndyCar race at Texas Motor Speedway. This event has developed into one of the most popular events for the IndyCar Series raising more than $200,000 for Speedway for Children in just two years.

Sam approaches his charitable commitments in the same manner as his racing career – with focus, drive and determination above and beyond what is necessary to be successful. Sam is often quoted as saying that he has a gift and with that gift comes an obligation to share it with others. It is quite evident he has not shirked that responsibility as he continues to give to the racing and hometown community that has always welcomed him with open arms.

If you are interested in making a donation or gift to The Sam Hornish, Jr. Foundation, please send a check or money order made payable to:

The Sam Hornish, Jr. Foundation
2060 East 2nd Street, Suite 104
Defiance, Ohio 43512

Please include your address, if not written on the check, so the Sam Hornish, Jr. Foundation can send an acknowledgement letter for your tax deductible donation. Thank you in advance for your generous and gracious gift.