White Castle will launch the “Round Up” fundraising campaign on behalf of Autism Speaks, the largest autism advocacy organization in the U.S. Beginning today, White Castle team members will ask customers if they want to “round up” their bill to the nearest dollar for Autism Speaks. Every cent above the cost of an order will be donated to the nonprofit group.
The “Round Up” campaign is an extension of White Castle’s ongoing fundraising efforts for Autism Speaks. The family-owned business started raising money for Autism Speaks in 2009 as part of its philanthropic “Castle Shares” initiative. Since then, it has raised more than $8.1 million with the help of its generous customers, primarily through the sale of blue puzzle pieces symbolic of Autism Speaks’ iconic logo.
“White Castle has been spreading awareness of autism and raising donations for Autism Speaks for over a decade,” says Erin Shannon, corporate relations manager at White Castle and a fourth-generation member of the Ingram family, which has owned White Castle since its founding in 1921. “We are honored to be a part of this cause year after year. Our company’s support of Autism Speaks has a deeper meaning for our family and for many White Castle team members who have loved ones with autism. We hope that our support helps make a difference for people with autism and their families.”
The White Castle “Round Up” campaign will run from October 13, 2020, to January 13, 2021, with 100% of the donations going to Autism Speaks.
“We are excited to work with the White Castle team and their loyal customers again this year,” adds Valerie Paradiz, Autism Speaks vice president of services and support. “Now more than ever, the community needs our support. The funds raised will further research, advocacy, support and services for people with autism.”