About us
our Leaders:
Rev. Humberto Chavez
Chaplain
Karen Chavez
General Manager
Nick Caras
Programs Director
what we do
The unique community of backstretch workers and their families face many challenges in their lives and are lacking in resources to address these challenges. The NY Race Track Chaplaincy is there around the clock to minister to the needs of this community of workers at all three NY Race Tracks. Through extensive programs and daily one on one meetings and counseling, the small staff of the NY Chaplaincy depends upon its volunteers and supporters to accomplish its mission. We hope you will read about our programs and services and decide to partner with us in our mission. We hope to see you soon!
Our history
The Race Track Chaplaincy of America was organized in 1971 and Incorporated in 1972 as a Tax-Exempt, Non-profit Charitable Organization with a National Board of Directors, Constitution and By-laws. The work of the Chaplaincy began in New York tracks in September 1986 with Chaplain-at-Large Norm Evans as an Interim Chaplain. Chaplain Watson served as a full-time Chaplain from March 1987 thru February 2003. Chaplain Humberto Chavez served as interim Chaplain from March 2003-September 2003, and subsequently was named permanent Chaplain as of September 2003.