On October 13, Hardee’s restaurants operated by Boddie-Noell Enterprises across Virginia will sell stars for a dollar to raise money for Special Olympics Virginia. The annual fundraiser, called Buy a Star, Be a Fan, ends on November 9 and is slated to help more than 1,000 Special Olympics athletes participate in the 2010 summer games. Last year, Hardee’s restaurants owned and operated by Boddie-Noell raised more than $30,000 for Special Olympics Virginia.

Boddie-Noell Enterprises, the largest Hardee’s franchise operator in the U.S., has been partners with the Special Olympics Virginia for 29 years, contributing in excess of $1 million to the organization during that time. Boddie-Noell owns and operates 180 Hardee’s restaurants across Virginia.

“For 29 years Hardee’s has been helping Special Olympics Virginia create more inclusive communities throughout the Commonwealth,” says Rick Jeffrey, president of Special Olympics Virginia. “The Special Star promotion is another example of the Hardee’s commitment to believe in people and help everyone reach their full potential. I hope that everyone will visit Hardee’s this month to buy a star and make sure that as many athletes as possible get to compete at Special Olympics Virginia competitions in 2010.”

Boddie-Noell and Hardee’s also partner in the Special Olympics Virginia Training for Life program by employing persons with intellectual disabilities, some of whom are Special Olympics athletes, and providing a welcome workplace environment that breeds success.

“We look forward to supporting Special Olympics Virginia each year,” says Jerry Allsbrook, chief marketing officer for Boddie-Noell and a board member of Special Olympics Virginia. “The role this organization fulfills in communities across the state is invaluable. We know this would not be possible without the continuous support of our customers across the Commonwealth. Our goal is to make this year the most successful fundraiser to date.”