STATESVILLE, N.C. — When I first met Ryan and Krissie Newman nearly 10 years ago, it was to report on a story about their love for animals. They own several dogs and they both showed me the many things they’ve done to help the welfare of animals, not only in the Charlotte region, but also across the country.
But over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how the Newmans show that love for animals, and it’s not just financially. Like most drivers, Newman has a foundation and his focuses on educating and encouraging people to spay/neuter their pets and to adopt dogs or cats from agencies. While he and Krissie have donated hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to programs nationwide, their drive to help extends well beyond just spending money.
That’s where The Rescue Ranch comes in. The Ranch, in Statesville, is largely the idea of Krissie, who felt it was time to create their own place to help animals and to teach people about them.
The RR is currently in its opening phase of construction with an education center that will be used to teach kids about the different animals. Eventually, the 172 acres will include an emergency vet clinic, adoption center and boarding, horse trails, dog park and a memorial garden for people who have lost their pets.
The Rescue Ranch will eventually replace The Ryan Newman Foundation, which is extremely rare in the racing industry. NASCAR is a sport, which over the years has been built on driver personalities. Every driver has a foundation and every driver gives generously to charity. But few drivers are personally invested in seeing where the money goes.
Krissie helps to run the foundation and is intricately involved in the planning of the Rescue Ranch. While it will be a place where people can learn about the animals and get help for pets -- it will also be a place for the Newmans to come. Krissie hopes to be there every week and bring their two daughters to help and learn.
Yes, it’s a passion for the Newmans and their team, but it’s also a way of life.
WSOC
