About the Follow a Dream Organization
Established in 1999, Follow A Dream is a non-profit 501(C)3 organization with the mission of demonstrating the Power of Positive Thinking, Self-Determination, and Teamwork. The organization’s message is uniquely delivered through NHRA drag racing as its medium.
As racing’s only totally blind, race crew chief, Follow A Dream Founder Jay Blake draws upon his personal experience of overcoming adversity and achieving his dream of auto racing and shares his inspiration with others. He is also available for motivational speaking engagements at various types of events.
Jay’s Remarkable Story
While working as the head mechanic of a transportation company in May of 1997, Follow A Dream’s owner and crew chief Jay Blake was involved in an industrial tire explosion accident that caused him to lose complete vision, smell, and taste.
At the age of 31, Jay was faced with the monumental challenge of relearning how to live as a completely blind person. Incredibly, despite losing his eyesight, Jay did not lose his positive attitude on life nor his desire to pursue his dreams.
Jay had always wanted to form his own professional auto racing team, and in spite of his serious setback, he continued to focus on his goals. Refusing to give up on life, Jay aggressively participated in rehabilitation and with renewed determination Jay began to follow his dream.
Jay’s 5 Tools for Success
Turning his dream into a reality, Jay combined his participation in drag racing with his desire to spread his true-life success by inspiring others to accomplish their goals through the Power of Positive Thinking, Self-Determination, and Teamwork.
Since then, Jay’s team has worked its way up the rankings to become one of the top Funny Car teams in the world. Jay also tours the country giving his “5 Tools for Life Success” motivational presentations at schools, corporate events, military bases, as well as promotional and charitable events.