The Heart of Speed: My Experience Volunteering with Just Hands
There’s something truly special about high-performance driving events. The sound of engines, the feel of the pavement under your feet, and the energy that fills the air are unlike anything else. For me, though, the real magic happens behind the scenes. As a volunteer with the Just Hands, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with physical disabilities experience the thrill of high-performance driving. And even though I’m not in a wheelchair myself, the joy I get from working with participants and their supportive friends and families is beyond words.
What is Just Hands?
The Just Hands Racing Foundation is all about providing people with physical disabilities the chance to experience the freedom and excitement of high-performance driving. The foundation equips adaptive vehicles with hand controls and other modifications, ensuring that everyone, regardless of physical limitations, can feel the power of a race car.
As a volunteer, I get to see firsthand how the foundation opens up this world to people who may have never thought it was possible. Our role as volunteers is crucial—we ensure everything runs smoothly and that each participant can fully immerse themselves in the experience.
A Day in My Life as a Volunteer
Volunteering at these events has been one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done. Every day on the track is unique, but here’s what a typical experience looks like as a volunteer:
- Early Morning Setup: The day often starts early, usually around 7am-730am – a great time to be at the track! The volunteer will get the foundation car – a beautiful Porsche Cayman – and make sure it has a tank full of gas. If it needs to be filled up, there are gas pumps at the track. Then the car has to go through the “tech inspection” line where you will hand in a tech inspection form that is already waiting with the car. Then you meet with the participant and show them the car, general surroundings and talk about the day ahead.
- Driver Support: You will make sure the driver gets the right helmet (we have many available) and show them how to buckle into the car. Many of the participants are very comfortable transferring themselves from their wheelchairs into the car and using the hand controls, but we volunteers are there to provide any assistance they might need. Whether it’s helping with helmet fittings or offering words of encouragement before they hit the track, being a part of their preparation is always an honor.
- Instructors provided: There will be an instructor who will take over once the participant is in the and getting ready to go on track.
- Working with Friends and Family: One of the aspects I cherish the most is seeing the support system that surrounds each participant. Family members and friends come out to cheer them on, and being able to interact with them as a volunteer is deeply rewarding. You get to share in their pride and joy as their loved one takes control of a high-performance car, often for the first time.
- Behind the Scenes: While the participants are on the track, we volunteers work hard to keep everything running smoothly. Whether it’s monitoring the session, managing logistics, or simply being available for anything that comes up, there’s always plenty to do. It’s a busy but rewarding day, knowing that each small task we complete is helping make the event a success.
- Post-Event Reflections: After the event, as we wrap things up, there’s usually time for conversations and selfies with the participants and their families. These moments are always heartwarming. Hearing them talk about the rush of adrenaline they felt or how empowered they are after driving reminds me why I volunteer. I’ve seen firsthand the impact these experiences have—not just for the drivers but for everyone who supports them.
Why Volunteering at Just Hands is Special
Volunteering with the Just Hands has given me so much more than I ever expected. Every time I see someone, who might never have imagined themselves behind the wheel of a high-performance car, take control and push the limits, I’m reminded of the power of determination and community. It’s about so much more than driving; it’s about empowerment, confidence, and breaking down barriers.
And while the participants are the stars of the day, the friends and family members who come out to support them are just as important. Seeing their excitement and pride as they watch their loved ones take the wheel is an experience I’ll never forget. Being a volunteer has allowed me to be part of a community that lifts each other up and celebrates every win—big or small.
Get Involved
If you’re looking for a way to make a difference while being part of the exhilarating world of high-performance driving, I can’t recommend the Just Hands enough. Whether you have experience in motorsports or just a passion for helping others, there’s a place for you as a volunteer.
