The Wheelers have been involved in prevention efforts for a number of years. They have raised millions of dollars for prevention efforts and have spoken to thousands of students statewide. Their desire to work directly with Virginia's young people has taken them to many high school assemblies to tell the story of their personal tragedy. The total commitment of this couple has inspired and guided many others in the continuing effort to prevent teens from drinking, driving and dying. Morris and Billie are an inspiration to all who hear them.
Statistics show that the educational effort is working.
Much of the credit for this success goes directly to the leadership of the Wheeler family. This award, which came to be known as the Wheeler Award, honors the Wheeler family in recognition of their outstanding efforts in the prevention of alcohol and drug-related driving tragedies among Virginia teenagers. The cash awards and other forms of recognition are used to enhance and promote substance abuse prevention efforts.