"We couldn't be more pleased that Artie is being considered for this honor," said Theda Ellis, executive Director of Autism Delaware. "The work he's done to champion autism awareness and education has improved the lives of hundreds of Delawareans affected by autism."

All active employees within the NASCAR industry - drivers, owners, team and track employees, licensees, media partners, and motorsports media - who have demonstrated a dedication to serving others and improving communities through significant service efforts are eligible to be nominated for the award. The award winner will receive a $100,000 donation made by The Home Depot to the recipient's charity of choice and a specially designed crystal award. The other two finalists will each receive a $25,000 donation to their designated nonprofit organization.

Kempner, who is coordinating director of NASCAR on FOX Sports, became an advocate of autism awareness in honor of his son Ethan, who has autism. To spread the word about autism, he not only became a founder of Autism Delaware, but also played integral roles in Visa's decision to sponsor the "Autism Speaks 400 presented by Visa" and in the creation of FOX Sports Supports, a network-wide charitable commitment that benefits Autism Speaks and other nonprofit organizations. Kempner remains active in Autism Delaware and serves as chairperson of its annual "Drive for Autism" golf tournament, which has raised more than $2.5 million for autism and research since its inception.

About Autism Delaware
Founded in 1998, Autism Delaware (AD) is a nonprofit organization of family members and friends of Delawareans with autism. The goal of AD is to educate Delawareans about and raise awareness of autism within the state. Autism Delaware is located at 924 Old Harmony Road, Suite 201, Newark, Delaware 19713. For more information, please visit http://www.delautism.org/.