For Jennifer Query, the roar of the engines at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway isn’t just a sound; it’s the soundtrack of her life. Growing up in a family of Indy 500 enthusiasts, she spent every May either in turn four or glued to the radio broadcast. That lifelong connection eventually came full circle through a family recommendation. While her brother grew up to fulfill his dream of calling the race over the airwaves at age 52, Jennifer found her own way to contribute to the legacy. Upon retiring, she traded her spectator seat for a volunteer vest, inspired by the 500 Festival Education Program.

While Jennifer has experienced the magic of the track at dawn while working at water stations for the Mini-Marathon, watching the “wall of runners” for two solid hours, her heart truly belongs to the classroom. Her mission is simple but profound: to ignite a passion for racing in the young minds of today. She finds nothing more rewarding than hearing a student express excitement about watching the race and spotting what they’ve learned. For Jennifer, if she can inspire even one child to tune in and eventually attend the race in person, she has succeeded in her goal.

The atmosphere of the 500 Festival is something Jennifer describes as unlike anything she has ever seen. After volunteering at events throughout the city, she is continually struck by the way the 500 Festival brings people together in support of our city and state. This “community under the stands” provides a deep sense of belonging and seeing her volunteer buddies return year after year creates a unique bond. For Jennifer, these moments are a powerful reminder that she can still make a significant difference in her retirement, ensuring the passion for INDYCAR racing continues to thrive from generation to generation.

We are honored to have volunteers like Jennifer who bridge the gap between the legends of the past and the fans of the future. Her dedication ensures that the traditions we cherish today will continue to thrive for another seventy years. When asked what she would say to someone considering signing up for the first time, her advice is simple: do it. The kids provide the energy, the community provides the heart, and the experience provides memories that last a lifetime.

If you’re inspired by Jennifer and want to give your time and make a difference, check out volunteer opportunities for the 500 Festival at 500Festival.com/volunteer.