Travis and Kelsey Dassow: Racing Toward Hope as Friends of Jaclyn NEDvocates

In the heart of Wisconsin, where the roar of engines meets the cheers of devoted fans, Travis and Kelsey Dassow are redefining what it means to be community leaders. As the proud owners of Slinger Speedway, their passion for racing is matched only by their compassion for children battling pediatric cancer. Through their partnership with the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, the Dassows have emerged as true NEDvocates—champions of No Evidence of Disease and advocates for joy, dignity, and hope.

Their journey took a deeply personal turn when they welcomed seven-year-old Vincent into the Slinger High School football family. Vincent, a brave young boy fighting cancer, was “adopted” by the team in a heartwarming ceremony that symbolized more than just camaraderie—it was a declaration of love and support. Travis and Kelsey were there, not as spectators, but as active participants in Vincent’s story. Their presence underscored their commitment to improving the quality of life for children like him.

But the Dassows didn’t stop at the sidelines. They took Vincent’s story to the track, emblazoning his name on driver Joe Valento’s race car—a powerful symbol of inclusion and honor. That same weekend, at the event on Saturday night, Vincent’s mother, Tami, shared his journey with the entire football team and racing community. Her words resonated deeply, reminding everyone that behind every diagnosis is a child with dreams, courage, and a need for connection.

The Dassows’ vision goes far beyond a single event. They’ve pledged to collaborate with any child receiving care at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, ensuring that each one has their name proudly displayed on race cars and is embraced by the Slinger High School football team. This initiative transforms the speedway into a sanctuary of hope, where children are not defined by their illness but celebrated for their strength.

By integrating these children into the fabric of racing and sports, Travis and Kelsey are creating unforgettable experiences that uplift spirits and foster resilience. The football team doesn’t just host these children—they cheer for them, stand beside them, and make them feel like champions. It’s a stunning display of unity and empathy, proving that NEDvocates don’t just talk about change—they drive it.

Travis and Kelsey Dassow exemplify how passion and purpose can intersect to create something truly extraordinary. Their leadership at Slinger Speedway is not just about lap times and trophies—it’s about making every child feel seen, valued, and loved. In a world that often overlooks the quiet battles fought by pediatric cancer patients, the Dassows are turning up the volume, one race, one child, and one heartfelt gesture at a time.

They are not just owners of a racetrack. They are architects of joy, builders of community, and tireless NEDvocates who remind us all that the greatest victories happen off the track—in the hearts of the children they inspire.