WINDHAM – A local business owner is one of four finalists for a nationwide community service award presented by Nascar.

Ron Eby, owner of Windham Automotive, is one of the 2012 nominees for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, which “honors the passionate commitment Betty Jane France has demonstrated with her charitable works and community efforts. France has been a pioneer of charitable works in the NASCAR community and serves as Chairwoman and founder of The NASCAR Foundation,” according to Nascar.

The winner of the award will be chosen through online voting. To vote, or to watch a video detailing Eby’s accomplishments, go to the Nascar website.

Eby’s profile on the site reads: “While on a cross-country trip in 1978 Ron Eby‘s daughter, then two, was treated for meningitis at a children’s hospital in Dayton, Ohio, and able to make a full recovery. The incredible care and compassion that his daughter received inspired Ron to set out on a path toward a life of giving back which led him to get involved with Camp Sunshine, a retreat for children with life threatening illnesses and their families. As a successful business owner, the 52-year-old auto repair shop owner from Windham, Maine, knew fundraising would be his strength.”

The winner of the 2012 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award will receive a $100,000 donation from The NASCAR Foundation to their children’s charity of choice and a 2013 Toyota Camry Hybrid from Toyota, while each of the remaining three finalists will receive a $25,000 donation to their children’s charity of choice. All finalists will attend NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion’s Week where the winner will be announced.

Ron Eby of Windham