Revving Up Dreams: A Legacy of Automotive Passion Fueling Student Success

In a heartwarming tribute, the family of a young mechanic who tragically lost his life has found a way to honor his memory and support the next generation of automotive enthusiasts. Two years after his passing, the Nathan Young Foundation Award is providing essential tools and resources to high school students, empowering them to pursue their dreams in the automotive industry.

Empowering the Next Generation of Mechanics

Passion for Cars, Passed Down Through Generations

Growing up, Nathan Young was surrounded by a family that shared his love for all things automotive. From an early age, he was immersed in the world of cars, learning alongside his father and older brother. "I grew up being around cars," recalled Sean Young, Nathan's brother. "There's probably photos of me at two months old in old cars and having fun. Nathan was the same way." This passion for cars and the desire to tinker and explore their inner workings were deeply ingrained in the Young family.

Automotive Academy: Nurturing Nathan's Dreams

During his time at Southern High School, Nathan was part of the school's automotive academy, honing his skills and furthering his passion for the industry. After graduating in 2020, he went on to become a mechanic at Barnes Auto Service, where he could turn his lifelong interest into a rewarding career. "Nathan was the same way," Sean continued, "We both love cars and we loved going to Carl Casper's every year when they did that and we loved going to Street Rods every year."

A Tragic Loss, A Lasting Legacy

Tragically, Nathan's life was cut short in a motorcycle accident on August 30, 2022, leaving his family and community devastated. In the wake of this loss, his family sought a way to honor his memory and continue his legacy. The Nathan Young Foundation Award was born, a heartfelt initiative that aims to support the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.

Empowering Students with Essential Tools

The Nathan Young Foundation Award provides toolboxes filled with the essential tools needed to kickstart a career in the automotive industry. "A lot of automotive shops require you to bring your own tools and purchase your own tools," explained Jacob McMahan. "For them to be able to go into a shop with a toolbox full of everything they need essentially as a beginner technician, it's an entire game changer for them." Each toolbox, valued between $1,200 and $1,500, helps alleviate the financial burden for students entering the field, allowing them to focus on their training and development without the added stress of acquiring costly equipment.

Fueling the Passion: The Nathan Young - Never Say Goodbye Car Show

To fund the Nathan Young Foundation Award, the family organizes an annual car show, the Nathan Young - Never Say Goodbye Car Show. Held around the anniversary of Nathan's passing, the event serves as a celebration of his life and a way for the community to come together and support the initiative. "We welcome any car build," McMahan said. "New car, old car, half-completed car, rusty car, it doesn't matter. Bring your ride out. Meet with other people. They can tell you what to do with your car, you can do the same to them."

Honoring Nathan's Memory, Inspiring the Future

The car show not only raises funds for the foundation but also provides a sense of solace and connection for Nathan's family. "It eases it a little bit because the car show is about the time when he passed away," Sean Young shared. "Obviously, you have the sadness of him passing away, but then I'm also looking forward to putting on the car show for him so he can look from heaven and be like, 'Man, this guy – they're doing something great for me and the school.'" Through this annual event, the Young family keeps Nathan's memory alive while empowering the next generation of automotive enthusiasts to pursue their dreams.