Jesse Love’s rise through NASCAR has been nothing short of extraordinary. At just 21 years old, he has already established himself as one of the sport’s brightest young stars. His rapid ascent—from back‑to‑back ARCA Menards Series West titles to the 2025 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Championship—has now reached its next milestone. Beginning in 2027, Jesse will take the wheel of one of the most iconic cars in stock‑car history: the Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 Ford Mustang, supported through the team’s long‑standing technical alliance with Team Penske. It is a moment that cements his status as one of NASCAR’s most promising talents.
Jesse adopted a child through the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation in his early racing days, forming a bond that shaped his heart and his outlook on life. And now, at just 21, he is preparing to adopt again in Chicago to kick off the nationally televised CW Great American Road Rally. His willingness to step forward a second time at such a young age reflects the true qualities instilled in him by his parents, Duke and Elizabeth.
His first FOJ adoption came early in his racing journey, long before national attention found him. That experience grounded him, shaped him, and taught him the power of showing up for a child who needs joy, connection, and emotional strength. Now, as a young man stepping into national visibility, he will once again embrace that sacred moment—this time in front of millions—during the Chicago episode of the 13‑part CW series The Great American Road Rally.
Airing September 2 through November 25 on the CW, the rally travels from Chicago along the iconic Route 66—celebrating its 100th anniversary—all the way to Santa Monica, California. This centennial journey connects communities, families, and stories across America, honoring the history of the Mother Road while spotlighting Jesse’s compassion and commitment. His second adoption will be one of the rally’s most powerful moments, a reminder that compassion is not measured in age, fame, or accomplishment, but in the willingness to show up for others.
With a platform reaching coast to coast, Jesse will once again demonstrate the qualities Duke and Elizabeth instilled in him: humility, compassion, empathy, and the belief that every child deserves to feel seen and supported.
Jesse’s compassion didn’t appear out of nowhere. It was nurtured. Duke and Elizabeth Love have been instrumental in shaping the man he has become. They taught him that success carries responsibility, that kindness is strength, and that the greatest victories in life are the ones that lift others up. As I often say, “I was raised to believe that children are a direct reflection of their parents. Duke and Elizabeth exceeded expectations with Jesse.” Their influence is evident every time Jesse kneels to meet a child at eye level, listens to their dreams, or celebrates their courage. His advocacy is a reflection of the values they poured into him.
As Jesse prepares to race full‑time on future NASCAR Sundays with Wood Brothers Racing, he carries those values with him. Every lap he turns will be more than a race—it will be a message. A message to children battling pediatric cancer that they have a champion in their corner. A message to families that they are not alone. A message to the world that greatness is measured not only in speed, but in compassion.
Jesse Love is more than a rising NASCAR star. He is a NEDVOCATE — someone who stands for No Evidence of Disease and advocates for every child and family fighting the beast. He is a champion for children. And as he steps into the legendary No. 21 Ford Mustang, he will continue carrying forward a mission rooted in love, hope, and human connection — because that’s what NEDVOCATES do: inspire others who are battling pediatric disease or cancer.
