The essential importance of second chances is well known to NASCAR drivers as speedy pit stops and final-lap tactics often do much more than just save the race. Retired Cup Series veteran Greg Biffle has taken this track philosophy about second chances even further to the world of philanthropy, where his leadership serves as his most meaningful victory lap.

We’ve seen drivers transition into different careers after putting down their helmets. Some transition into broadcasting roles, while others stick with racing in leadership roles within the team. Then there are the likes of Greg Biffle who truly make an impact with their racing influence. In his case, he started a non-profit organization, Lake Norman Humane, to help our furry friends in need of a new home.

“We started that organization years and years ago,” Biffle shared candidly in a conversation with Dale Jr on the podcast. What began as “Friends of the Animals” eventually merged with another group to form what is now Lake Norman Humane Society, complete with a purpose-built facility on Highway 21 in Mooresville, North Carolina. Biffle exhibited a similar deep passion for the shelter when he spoke about it that he did back when he discussed racing strategy at Talladega or Daytona.

For animals facing the equivalent of a crash wall at overcrowded county shelters, Lake Norman Humane represents their safety barrier – pulling adoptable pets from facilities where euthanasia might be just days away. Biffle’s impact statistics are remarkable and praiseworthy: “We adopt probably about 100 animals a month,” he added, a testament to the organization’s effectiveness in a state where shelter overcrowding remains a persistent challenge.

“In the state of North Carolina, we euthanize a lot of animals,” Biffle explained in a tone of urgency to Dale Jr. “Most of these dogs and cats that go to the shelter, that’s death row. They have about three to seven days, that’s it.” This situation reflects a cruel truth that parallels exactly with professional racing as swift disappearance of competitive timeframe for drivers. Lake Norman Humane provides these animals with what Biffle calls a “proper runway” – veterinary care, foster homes, and ultimately a path to adoption.

Dale Jr. also emphasized the critical nature of this work by sharing one of his eye-opening experiences at a Charlotte shelter. “I saw a cat and I was like, ‘I want that cat,'” he affirmed, “and they’re like, ‘Well, we can’t—it’s not adoptable.'” The feral cat’s inability to receive handling and medical care had sentenced it to remain in the facility permanently – exactly the kind of outcome Biffle’s organization works tirelessly to prevent for adoptable animals.

“The more fosters we have, it expands our organization without spending any money,” Biffle emphasized, describing the importance of community involvement in being their helping hand to scale the impact. Even Kelli Eavenson, Director of Operations at Lake Norman Humane, has previously stated, “Our foster network is absolutely vital. Without these dedicated homes, we simply couldn’t save as many lives as we do.”

NASCAR’s Legacy of Compassion

Biffle’s commitment toward animal welfare is demonstrated as one of the various components within NASCAR’s broad spectrum of charitable activities. The motorsport community has consistently channelled its competitive spirit into causes greater than trophies or championships.

This same spirit of service that Biffle cultivated through years of animal rescue work prepared him perfectly for when disaster struck North Carolina. When Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina in October 2024, Biffle didn’t hesitate to answer the call for help. “I’ll tell you, the feeling you get when you win a race, you can only ask drivers, right?” Biffle reflected. “Because the feeling you get when you win that race, that’s the feeling you get when you’re able to help people in need.”

What began as a casual invitation to fly his helicopter to Banner Elk quickly evolved into a coordinated relief operation. Within days, Biffle was part of a fleet that grew from a few helicopters to over twenty, delivering essential supplies to mountain communities cut off by washed-out roads. His commitment to the mission echoed the same determination he showed in his animal rescue efforts: “I don’t want to leave a soldier behind. That’s why I’m still at it,” he explained as the relief work continued well after initial emergency responses.

Greg Biffle demonstrates his compassion by dedicating himself continuously to such causes, be it Hurricane Helen Help or Lake Norman Humane. Dr. Patricia Norris, North Carolina State Animal Welfare Director, has praised such efforts: “Without private rescues like Lake Norman Humane, our state shelter system would be completely overwhelmed. They’re saving thousands of lives annually.”

As Biffle told Dale Jr. with unmistakable pride, “It’s a great thing, and I love being part of the organization.” For the countless animals who’ve found homes through his efforts, that sentiment likely translates to something even NASCAR champions can appreciate – the ultimate victory.