Cold Stone Creamery is partnering with Best Buddies International and hosting a nationwide fundraising promotion during the month of August in all domestic Cold Stone Creamery stores to support the organization. Best Buddies is a nonprofit that is dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Beginning August 1, Cold Stone customers can purchase a Best Buddies sticker, designed by renowned artist Keith Haring, for a minimum donation of $1 each. Keith Haring was an artist, philanthropist, and friend of Anthony K. Shriver, founder and chairman of Best Buddies International. Haring incorporated his energy and vibrant style into the now iconic Best Buddies logo. One hundred percent of proceeds from the stickers will be donated to the Best Buddies International organization.
"Cold Stone Creamery is honored to work together with Best Buddies and help support their mission to end the social, physical, and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities," says Kate Unger, senior vice president of marketing for Kahala Brands, parent company of Cold Stone Creamery. "Customers have the chance to share the message of friendship and empowerment when they purchase a Best Buddies sticker along with their favorite ice cream Creation."
In addition to the nationwide fundraising program, Cold Stone Creamery will be implementing a jobs program later this fall. This integrated employment program will pair members of Best Buddies with their local Cold Stone Creamery store. There, they will receive professional hands-on training in the art of creating the Ultimate Ice Cream Experience.
Cold Stone Creamery is also working on a mentoring program in which members of Best Buddies will have the chance to shadow an employee at the brand's corporate headquarters and training center in Scottsdale, Arizona.
