Girl gets whole town to Light It Up Blue for autism awareness

The world-renowned Blue Man Group are encouraging others to “Light It Up Blue” in commemoration of April 2^nd being World Autism Awareness Day.

Pledge to Light It Up Blue on April 2!

The Blue Man Group in addition to spread awareness have continued their partnership with Autism Speaks for the second-consecutive year, pledging to give a minimum $25,000 donation to the cause as well as host a sensory-friendly show suitable for children with autism spectrum disorders in Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, New York and Orlando.

Get details on upcoming sensory-friendly Blue Man Group performances here.

“We are overjoyed that Blue Man Group is continuing their partnership with Autism Speaks,” remarked Peter Morton, Autism Speaks vice president of development. “We hope this year’s initiatives are an even bigger success than last year.”

Blue Man Group will collect donations for Autism Speaks throughout April, Autism Awareness Month. All month, show goers will have the opportunity to donate at the Boston, Chicago and New York productions.

Read the full press release here.

New York, N.Y.  (March 21, 2016) – GameStop Corp., a global family of specialty retail brands that makes the most popular technologies affordable and simple, today announced a partnership with Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. Taking place throughout Autism Awareness Month, April 1 – 30, GameStop and its family of brands will participate in a fundraising and awareness campaign to benefit Autism Speaks.

This is GameStop’s first time partnering with Autism Speaks to conduct an in-store and online donation campaign. Customers at the company’s GameStop, Spring Mobile AT&T and Cricket Wireless, Simply Mac and ThinkGeek retail stores will have the opportunity to donate to Autism Speaks at point-of-purchase. The campaign will be supported by specialized in-store and online promotional materials, and online outreach through GameStop’s mobile gaming division, Kongregate, and gaming magazine, Game Informer.

“We are proud to partner with Autism Speaks this April,” said Matt Hodges, vice president of public and investor relations. “This partnership is extra special to the GameStop family. Many of our associates and customers have shared how the video game and technology products we sell have helped them have a meaningful relationship with their child who has autism. We look forward to a successful campaign and helping those families impacted by autism.”

This initiative is supported by GameStop’s passionate store associates, who are committed to giving back to the communities in which they work, live and play. As a ‘thank you’ to those customers who donate $1 or more, GameStop is offering triple PowerUp Rewards points on the donation amount.

“We are thrilled to see the world of gaming and technology embrace autism,” said Autism Speaks Vice President of Corporate Development Peter Morton. “We are grateful for this partnership since GameStop’s campaign will raise awareness of autism across the country.”

The donations raised through the GameStop campaign will help fund the Autism Speaks Family Services iPad Grant program, which provides iPads to financially disadvantaged children and adults with autism. iPads have become valuable tools for many people on the autism spectrum, allowing them to access apps that help advance communication and learning skills. Autism Speaks has donated more than 4,000 iPads to recipients across the country since in 2012. 

In addition, the money raised will also fund the research and science program at Autism Speaks, which enables the development of technological advances that improve the health and quality of life for individuals with autism and their families.

Since its inception in 2005, Autism Speaks has committed more than $570 million to its mission, the majority going toward science and medical research.

To find your local GameStop, Simply Mac, Spring Mobile AT&T, or ThinkGeek stores, visit www.gamestop.com, www.simplymac.com, www.springmobile.com, or www.thinkgeek.com. To learn more about Autism Speaks, visit: autismspeaks.org.

About Autism

Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 68 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum. 

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $570 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 70 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

About GameStop Corp.

GameStop Corp. (NYSE: GME), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Grapevine, Texas, is a global, multichannel video game, consumer electronics and wireless services retailer. GameStop operates more than 7,100 stores across 14 countries. The company's consumer product network also includes www.gamestop.com; www.Kongregate.com, a leading browser-based game site; Game Informer® magazine, the world's leading print and digital video game publication; and ThinkGeek, www.thinkgeek.com, the premier retailer for the global geek community featuring exclusive and unique video game and pop culture products. In addition, our Technology Brands segment includes Simply Mac and Spring Mobile stores. Simply Mac, www.simplymac.com, operates 76 stores, selling the full line of Apple products, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones and offering Apple certified warranty and repair services. Spring Mobile, http://springmobile.com, sells post-paid AT&T services and wireless products through its 890 AT&T branded stores and offers pre-paid wireless services, devices and related accessories through its 70 Cricket branded stores in select markets in the U.S.

General information about GameStop Corp. can be obtained at the company's corporate website. Follow GameStop on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GameStop and find GameStop on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GameStop.

Media Contacts:

Autism Speaks

Jacqueline Kepping

(646) 385-8544

Jacqueline.Kepping@autismspeaks.org

GameStop

Martha Martinez-Sotelo

(817) 722-7950

MarthaMartinez-Sotelo@gamestop.com

TWEET IT: .@bluemangroup kicks off year 2 of partnering w/ @autismspeaks through donations & sensory-friendly shows! www.blueman.com/autismspeaks

NEW YORK CITY – The world-renowned Blue Man Group will continue their partnership with Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, for the second-consecutive year, pledging to give a minimum $25,000 donation to the cause as well as hosting a sensory-friendly show suitable for children with autism in Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, New York City and Orlando.

“We are overjoyed that Blue Man Group is continuing their partnership with Autism Speaks,” remarked Peter Morton, Autism Speaks vice president of corporate development. “This is an initiative that not only raises funds and awareness but also provides families with the unique opportunity to experience Blue Man Group in a setting that meets their needs. We are grateful for this commitment to the autism community.”

Blue Man Group will collect donations for Autism Speaks throughout April, Autism Awareness Month. All month, show-goers will have the opportunity to donate at the Boston, Chicago and New York City locations. Monies raised in Las Vegas will be gifted to Grant a Gift Autism Foundation.

In addition, each production will offer a sensory-friendly show on select dates throughout the year, with a percentage of proceeds benefiting autism awareness. Slight modifications will be made including reducing sound and light levels at various moments during the performance and making headphones available upon request. The Blue Men will limit the amount of direct audience interaction and keep their approach to the audience more subdued. Blue Man Group will also create calming environments in the theater’s lobby for families seeking a break from the excitement.

Sensory-friendly performances will take place:

·       Las Vegas: Sunday, June 12

·       Boston: Sunday, June 26

·       Chicago: Sunday, Oct. 2

·       New York City: Saturday, Nov. 5

·       Orlando: January 2017

As part of the partnership, Blue Man Group will encourage others to “Light It Up Blue” with a video created specifically for the Autism Speaks annual fundraising drive. The video features a song from Blue Man Group’s new album, THREE, available on Rhino Records April 22, 2016. Watch the video HERE.

"Creating a version of our show that is more accessible for families affected by autism has been a very meaningful experience for us. We are thrilled to provide a safe and welcoming environment and are often quite moved by the emotional response to the show,” said Phil Stanton, Blue Man Group co-founder.

The fastest growing developmental disorder in the U.S., autism spectrum disorder affects 1 in 68 children and 1 in 42 boys. Characteristics include social challenges, communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors. As a non-verbal, visually-stunning show, Blue Man Group serves as a great fit for all children and families.

The sensory-friendly performance schedule can be found at blueman.com/autismspeaks. Fans can also keep up with Blue Man Group through Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or the hashtag #DareToLive.

ABOUT BLUE MAN GROUP

In 2016, global entertainment phenomenon Blue Man Group celebrates 25 years of living in full color with a series of new projects and appearances. The company is best known for the award-winning Blue Man Group show, performed in 15 countries and seen by more than 35 million people worldwide since 1991. A dynamic combination of music, comedy and technology, the show appeals to a broad range of age groups and cultural backgrounds. It is continually refreshed with new music, fresh stories, custom instruments and state-of-the-art technology.

The company developed through a creative collaboration among three close friends, Chris Wink, Phil Stanton and Matt Goldman on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Blue Man Group now has permanent theatrical productions in Las Vegas, Orlando, Boston, Chicago, New York and Berlin, a North American tour and a World Tour.

This creative collective is part of the pop culture zeitgeist. Beyond the stage show, they have toured the globe with the “Megastar World Tour” rock concert parody, released 6 albums, including the upcoming Three, and the Grammy-nominated Audio, and contributed to numerous film and TV scores. They've served as the face of branding campaigns for Intel and TIM/Brasil and appeared countless times on hit shows like “The Tonight Show”, "Arrested Development", “Ellen”, “Schlag den Raab” (Germany), “WOWOW” (Japan), and “Caldeirão do Huck” (Brasil).

Based in New York City, Blue Man Productions has extensive production facilities, recording studios and a 6,000 square foot Research & Development Lab with numerous new creative projects in the pipeline. 

ABOUT AUTISM SPEAKS

Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $570 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 70 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

# # #

Media Inquiries:

Aurelia Grayson

Autism Speaks Senior Director of Media Strategy 646-385-8531

Aurelia.grayson@autismspeaks.org

Allie LeClair / Ella Bailey

Kirvin Doak Communications: 702.737.3100

bmp@kirvindoak.com

Laura Camien

VP, Communications

Blue Man Productions: 917.689.3688

laurac@blueman.com

On March 20th, over 25,000 runners took on the 13.1 miles course from Central Park to Wall Street, in NYC!

Within the crowd, Team Up! with Autism Speaks had a contingent of 23 runners: a dedicated team of parents, professionals, siblings, teachers, and friends that has collectively raised over $35,000 to date. The fundraising and training had started 4 months before and Sunday was a day full of miles, smiles, medals, sweat, hugs and accomplishments.

We want to congratulate each one of our runners for their impressive feats, on the NYC streets as well as in their fundraising, going above and beyond on both levels! We want to give special thanks to our runners' families and friends for their support throughout the training cycle, cheering on the streets, and supporting their runners' fundraising. We have loved having this team of athletes, working so close together with clear goals, and we are already looking forward to the TCS New York City Marathon and next year's United Airlines NYC Half! Congratulations Runners!

If you're thinking about doing a NYC race, you can now sign up for the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon! For a list of all Team Up! events you can learn more at www.autismspeaks.org/teamup

New York, N.Y. (March 21, 2016) – Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, has announced that Spectrum Designs, an apparel customization shop that employs people with autism, will be the vendor for official Autism Speaks Walk 2016 T-shirts.

Spectrum Designs is a nonprofit social enterprise that provides meaningful work opportunities to individuals with autism. Spectrum Designs brings its items to life by using screen printing, embroidery, state-of-the-art digital printing and unsurpassed customer service. The Autism Speaks Walk contract is the largest job undertaken by Spectrum Designs so far. Each Walk T-shirt will include a special tag about Spectrum Designs, providing the organization with visibility across the nearly 60 Autism Speaks Walk locations around the country.

“We are thrilled to be selected as the official T-shirt vendor for Autism Speaks Walk 2016. It is a testament to the fact that social enterprises can compete on a national scale and this puts Spectrum Designs firmly on the map,” said Spectrum Designs president Patrick Bardsley. “Our commitment to quality and unsurpassed customer service are what propel our growth. Every order that we receive provides us with the opportunity to expand and create more employment opportunities for adults with autism.”

Spectrum Designs currently employs 25 full and part-time adult staff, with approximately 75 percent of staff diagnosed with autism or a related condition. It is an integrated workforce with employees earning minimum wage or above depending on education, skill-set, experience and general performance. Spectrum Designs has also opened its doors to a group of school-aged individuals with autism who intern as trainees, with the goal of creating employment opportunities upon exiting high school. On-site education staff help employees and trainees to address possible employment barriers to the future, in an effort to assist them in leading fuller, independent and more productive lives.

“Many people with autism are capable and do excellent work,” said Lisa Goring, Autism Speaks executive vice president of programs and services. “We are thrilled to work with Spectrum Designs to provide our walk participants with a quality product from a company that utilizes the talents of people with autism and provides opportunity for meaningful employment.”

National data indicates that the vast majority of adults with autism are either unemployed or underemployed, with estimates ranging as high as 90 percent. An estimated 500,000 adolescents on the spectrum will enter adulthood in the next decade. Helping businesses build knowledge and networks to stabilize employment opportunities is one way to support this abundance of job-seekers in the market.

About Autism

Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 68 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum. 

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $570 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 70 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

About Spectrum Designs

Established in 2011, Spectrum Designs is a nonprofit social enterprise specializing in custom apparel decoration with the mission of employing people with autism. Offering high quality screen printing, embroidery, in house graphic arts and a wide range of promotional items, Spectrum is devoted to being the fastest business of its kind. With its competitive pricing, commitment to quality and unsurpassed customer service, Spectrum has gained clients such as KPMG, Neiman Marcus, Autism Speaks and Facebook. Grounded in its vision of providing gainful employment opportunities, its integrated workforce earn at least minimum wage and its unique structure allows for people of all abilities to grow and thrive, both within the organization and beyond. Learn more at www.spectrumdesigns.org.

Autism Speaks

The Suez Canal in Egypt will Light It Up Blue on April 2, 2016 in honor of World Autism Awareness Day!

The Suez Canal that was officially opened on November 17, 1869, is an artificial sea-level waterway that is the first canal ever to connect between the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. The canal is just over 120 miles in length.

Based on its popularity going back to it’s origin date going back to ancient Egypt, the Suez Canal Authority was notified that the canal would be nationalized on July 26, 1956. 

Join Light It Up Blue and pledge to wear blue or light your home or business blue!

An Apple autism app, created by researchers at Duke University, recently received funding from the United States Navy with hopes that it can eventually be used to find signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The app, "Autism & Beyond," plays 20-minute videos and uses the iPhone or iPad's built-in camera to scan viewers' facial expressions, analyze their microreactions, and then indicate if there's a potential risk of autism. The goal is to make the autism screening and diagnostic process more efficient by prioritizing high-risk children to help them see a doctor for a diagnosis sooner.

The app, which uses a general algorithm, could be expanded to PTSD to monitor people over time if speech and other signals are taken into account, the Associated Press reported.

"It can find patterns, not just in facial expressions but in different kinds of data sets, such as brain signals and speech, and it can be used on a continuous basis," Pedja Neskovic, who oversees the project in the Office of Naval Research, told AP.

Andy Shih, Autism Speaks senior vice president of scientific affairs, was involved in a working group discussion during the app's development. 

"This is an example of a growing trend in health research where emerging technologies and research methodologies, such as the mobile computing platform and crowd sourcing, are allowing us to address research questions at an unprecedented scale in collaboration with the community," Dr. Shih said.

The app also received special attention at the live Apple Product Event on March 21, where the company showed off the capabilities of the app and how doctors are using it to screen for autism. 

Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. will Light It Up Blue on April 2, 2016 in honor of World Autism Awareness Day!

Gillette Stadium is a stadium that today is the home of the NFL’s 4-time Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots and MLS’s New England Revolution. The stadium started construction on May 24, 2000 and officially opened on May 11, 2002. The stadium seats 68,756 people.  

In addition to sporting events they hold countless entertainment events including key headliners such as The Rolling Stones. This isn’t the first stadium that announced they were going blue. Earlier this month we highlighted that Madison Square Garden in New York, NY will Light It Up Blue on April 2^nd!

Join Light It Up Blue and pledge to wear blue or light your home or business blue!

The Northern NJ Walk Kick-Off Dinner took place on Tuesday, March 22^nd at the Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford, NJ – right next door to our Autism Speaks Walk venue at MetLife Stadium just two months away on Sunday, May 22^nd! To register for the Walk visit www.AutismSpeaksWalk.org/NNJ.

Guests checked in to receive their walk passport and visited fundraising stations with how-to flyers on hosting a puzzle piece campaign, paint night party, blue jeans day, and many more. Once all the stamps were collected, guests received their free blue light bulb to Light It Up Blue on April 2^nd.

This year’s program was inspirational, informative and energetic! Kerry Magro shared his personal journey with autism being nonverbal at a young age to today, with six jobs including one as a renowned national speaker. His quote, “Autism can’t define me; I define autism,” left the audience in applause.

Heather Hays, Executive Director for the Autism Speaks NJ Chapter, expressed the importance of fundraising for our mission and how each dollar helps support individuals with autism. Speaking from experience, Nicole Wehr from Hope Autism Solutions told how her Autism Speaks NJ Chapter Grant supported local adult autism services.

Lastly, the Northern NJ Walk Chairs, Annmarie Wells and Michael DeFilippis, and the entire Northern NJ Leadership Committee rallied the crowd with a fun game of “Walk Quiz Show” to share step by step tips and tools on how to be a successful fundraiser. All attendees went home with their Team Captain packet and great fundraising ideas for the 2016 Walk!

We hope to see you at the Northern NJ Autism Speaks Walk on Sunday, May 22^nd at MetLife Stadium when we raise our goal of $386,000! Register today at www.AutismSpeaksWalk.org/NNJ. 

With an elevated safety risk for children and adults with autism, increased awareness of the unique needs of the community is important for families and first responders.

As part of an ongoing partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Autism Speaks facilitated two “train the trainer” sessions for New England first responders. The event was held in collaboration with Massachusetts State Police at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA.

The training covered how to recognize the signs and identify common characteristics of autism, as well as how to adapt one's approach in the field to promote effective and efficient response, including in cases of missing persons.

Over 500 first responders registered, and all participants are equipped to facilitate this training within their departments, expanding our reach exponentially.

Thank you to our partners in this event, NCMEC, Massachusetts State Police, Gillette Stadium, and Autism Speaks New England Chapter, in efforts to raise awareness.

It was announced that Spectrum Designs, an apparel customization shop that employs people with autism, will be the vendor for official Autism Speaks Walk 2016 T-shirts.

Spectrum Designs is a nonprofit social enterprise that provides meaningful work opportunities to individuals with autism. The Autism Speaks Walk contract is the largest job undertaken by Spectrum Designs so far. Each Walk T-shirt will include a special tag about Spectrum Designs, providing the organization with visibility across the nearly 60 Autism Speaks Walk locations around the country.

“We are thrilled to be selected as the official T-shirt vendor for Autism Speaks Walk 2016. It is a testament to the fact that social enterprises can compete on a national scale and this puts Spectrum Designs firmly on the map,” said Spectrum Designs president Patrick Bardsley. “Our commitment to quality and unsurpassed customer service are what propel our growth. Every order that we receive provides us with the opportunity to expand and create more employment opportunities for adults with autism.”

Spectrum Designs currently employs 25 full and part-time adult staff, with approximately 75 percent of staff diagnosed with autism or a related condition. 

“Many people with autism are capable and do excellent work,” said Lisa Goring, Autism Speaks executive vice president of programs and services. “We are thrilled to work with Spectrum Designs to provide our walk participants with a quality product from a company that utilizes the talents of people with autism and provides opportunity for meaningful employment.”

Read the full press release.

Learn more about Spectrum Designs in the video below:

The NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) will Light It Up Blue this year in honor of Autism Awareness Month and World Autism Awareness Day!

DSNY in a breakfast in NY officially kicked off their Autism Awareness Month fundraising and awareness campaign! Thanks to their support 2,500 DSNY trucks and street sweepers will feature our Light It Up Blue poster. 

The partnership between Autism Speaks and the NYC Department of Sanitation began in 2013. Chiefs Steven Costas, John Capo, Todd Kuznitz, George Best and Anthony Ardolino were instrumental in forming the partnership.

Autism Speaks would like to thank all of the employees of their 59 districts and administrative offices for their dedication and support. We ask you to please extend your thanks to all DSNY members for their efforts! Thank you DSYN for supporting Autism Speaks and Light It Up Blue!

Join Light It Up Blue and pledge to wear blue or light your home or business blue!

Throughout April, more than 12,400 Dollar General retail locations will collect donations to benefit Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. Customers may donate any amount at the checkout counter to support Autism Speaks’ efforts in research, awareness, family services and advocacy.

“Dollar General has been an unwavering partner, helping us provide resources for every stage of life, from early childhood diagnosis through adulthood,” said Peter Morton, Autism Speaks vice president of corporate development. “We’re grateful to the employees and leadership of Dollar General and share the company’s commitment to innovative solutions that meet the needs of families and communities.”

The fundraising drive is among many activities during Autism Awareness Month, which promotes understanding of the disorder that affects 1 in 68 children. Donations to Autism Speaks fund cutting-edge research, advocacy initiatives and free resources. They include Autism Speaks Tool Kits, which were downloaded more than 75,000 times in 2015, and the Autism Response Team, which last year answered more than 51,000 inquiries from families.

The partnership between Autism Speaks and Dollar General is now in its seventh consecutive year, and in 2015 alone, Dollar General raised $1.8 million for Autism Speaks.

“Part of our mission of Serving Others is our commitment to investing in organizations that extend help and hope to our customers and the communities we serve,” said Denine Torr, senior director of community initiatives. “Through our customers’ generosity, we look forward to having a positive impact on people affected by autism.”

Dollar General will join Autism Speaks’ other national partners – Game Stop, Lindt and White Castle – along with several regional retailers that include Modell’s Sporting Goods and Village Super Markets. Each company will raise funds and awareness in its stores throughout April.

About Autism

Autism is a general term for a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 68 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum.

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $570 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 70 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

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New York, N.Y. (March 24, 2016)– Throughout April, more than 12,400 Dollar General retail locations will collect donations to benefit Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. Customers may donate any amount at the checkout counter to support Autism Speaks’ efforts in research, awareness, family services and advocacy.

“Dollar General has been an unwavering partner, helping us provide resources for every stage of life, from early childhood diagnosis through adulthood,” said Peter Morton, Autism Speaks vice president of corporate development. “We’re grateful to the employees and leadership of Dollar General and share the company’s commitment to innovative solutions that meet the needs of families and communities.”

The fundraising drive is among many activities during Autism Awareness Month, which promotes understanding of the disorder that affects 1 in 68 children. Donations to Autism Speaks fund cutting-edge research, advocacy initiatives and free resources. They include Autism Speaks Tool Kits, which were downloaded more than 75,000 times in 2015, and the Autism Response Team, which last year answered more than 51,000 inquiries from families.

The partnership between Autism Speaks and Dollar General is now in its seventh consecutive year, and in 2015 alone, Dollar General raised $1.8 million for Autism Speaks.

“Part of our mission is Serving Others, our commitment to investing in organizations that extend help and hope to our customers and the communities we serve,” said Denine Torr, senior director of community initiatives. “Through our customers’ generosity, we look forward to having a positive impact on people affected by autism.”

Dollar General will join Autism Speaks’ other national partners – Game Stop, Lindt and White Castle – along with several regional retailers that include Modell’s Sporting Goods and Village Super Markets. Each company will raise funds and awareness in its stores throughout April.

New York Road Runners, Borough President James Oddo, Assemblyman Michael Cusick and Autism Speaks have come together to bring weekly walks and runs for people with autism and their families to Staten Island's Conference House Park.

Oddo got the idea from a Runner's World magazine article by Rob Rueff, who wrote about how daily runs with his son Ryan, who has autism, had positive effects on Ryan's life.

"For some kids, like Ryan, it is running. For other kids it might be some other activity. Whatever the activity, we simply have to find creative ways to help put more of the pieces of this puzzle together through perhaps unexpected paths," Oddo told DNAinfo.

The first walk/run kicks off April 3. The series will continue every Sunday at 9 a.m. in the Tottenville park. 

Read more about the program on DNAinfo.

RSVP online to participate in the walk/run series.

Looking for other ways to run for Autism Speaks? Find a run with Team Up! with Autism Speaks here!

Or, find an Autism Speaks Walk near you here!

Macy's Herald Square and Bloomingdales on 59th in New York City, NY will Light It Up Blue this year in honor of Autism Awareness Month and World Autism Awareness Day!

Macy’s Herald Square was built in 1902. The historic building was added to the National Register of Historic Places as a National Historic Landmark in 1978.

Bloomingdales was started by Joseph and Lyman Bloomingdale in the 1860’s and officially opened in 1872.

Join Light It Up Blue and pledge to wear blue or light your home or business blue!

In addition to going blue Autism Speaks national board member Laura Slatkin will be at Bloomingdales on 59^th Street on April 1^st as she kicks off a month long fundraising initiative during Autism Awareness Month. You can learn more about that event here. 

NEW YORK, N.Y. (March 25, 2016)– Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, is collaborating with The Home Depot and Philips Lighting, a Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX, PHIA) company and global leader in lighting, to shine a light on autism during Autism Awareness Month in April. Thousands of landmarks, buildings and homes will be bathed in blue light on Saturday, April 2, World Autism Awareness Day. Awareness is a key component of Autism Speaks’ mission because it often leads to early diagnosis and treatment, and understanding of autism – a disorder that affects an estimated 70 million people worldwide.

To support Autism Speaks’ annual Light It Up Blue campaign, customers can show their support for autism awareness by displaying blue light bulbs, which can be purchased in The Home Depot stores and at homedepot.com. Home Depot will donate $150,000 and Philips Lighting will also provide a donation toward Autism Speaks’ efforts to promote scientific research, awareness, advocacy and family services. Over the past 11 years, Autism Speaks has committed $570 million to its mission, and corporate partnerships have played an important role.

“We are thrilled to once again partner with The Home Depot and Philips Lighting, and grateful for their ongoing commitment to Light It Up Blue,” said Peter Morton, Autism Speaks vice president of corporate development. “This program makes it easy for anyone to light up their home or business in a unique way.”

The Philips Blue A19 LED and blue floodlight bulbs are available in stores and online. 

Last year, 18,600 landmarks, buildings, communities and homes in 142 countries on all seven continents took part in Light It Up Blue. A photo gallery, along with ideas for taking part in the campaign, is on Autism Speaks’ website, www.autismspeaks.org/liub. The site also accepts donations to fund Autism Speaks’ mission.

About Autism

Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 68 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum. 

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $570 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 70 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

About The Home Depot

The Home Depot is the world's largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,274 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. In fiscal 2015, The Home Depot had sales of$88.5 billion and earnings of $7.0 billion. The Company employs more than 385,000 associates. The Home Depot's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor's 500 index.

About Philips Lighting

Philips Lighting, a Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) company, is the global leader in lighting products, systems and services. Our understanding of how lighting positively affects people coupled with our deep technological know-how enable us to deliver digital lighting innovations that unlock new business value, deliver rich user experiences and help to improve lives. Serving professional and consumer markets, we sell more energy efficient LED lighting than any other company. We lead the industry in connected lighting systems and services, leveraging the Internet of Things to take light beyond illumination and transform homes, buildings and urban spaces. In 2015, we had sales of EUR 7.4 billion and employed 33,000 people worldwide. News from Philips Lighting is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.

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The New York Red Bulls and their Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey will Light It Up Blue this year in honor of World Autism Awareness Day!

In addition to going blue they will host their Autism Awareness Night at Red Bull Arena on Saturday, April 9 for their matchup against Sporting Kansas City! At the game there will be a Quiet Zone available for fans in attendance.

For people interested in attending the game you can use promo code AUTISM2016 when purchasing your tickets and a portion of the sale will go back to support the cause!

This isn’t the first time the Red Bulls have got involved with the cause. Last year they hosted their Autism Awareness Night against the San Jose Earthquakes. A few days before the game New York Red Bulls general manager Marc de Grandpre shared his story with NBC New York of getting involved with autism awareness for his daughter Julia who is 7-years-old and on the autism spectrum. 

Join Light It Up Blue and pledge to wear blue or light your home or business blue!

NEW YORK, N.Y. (March 28, 2016)– Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, is collaborating with The Home Depot and Philips Lighting, a Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX, PHIA) company and global leader in lighting, to shine a light on autism during Autism Awareness Month in April. Thousands of landmarks, buildings and homes will be bathed in blue light on Saturday, April 2, World Autism Awareness Day. Awareness is a key component of Autism Speaks’ mission because it often leads to early diagnosis and treatment, and understanding of autism – a disorder that affects an estimated 70 million people worldwide.

To support Autism Speaks’ annual Light It Up Blue campaign, customers can show their support for autism awareness by displaying blue light bulbs, which can be purchased in The Home Depot stores and at homedepot.com. Home Depot will donate $150,000 and Philips Lighting will also provide a donation toward Autism Speaks’ efforts to promote scientific research, awareness, advocacy and family services. Over the past 11 years, Autism Speaks has committed $570 million to its mission, and corporate partnerships have played an important role.

“We are thrilled to once again partner with The Home Depot and Philips Lighting, and grateful for their ongoing commitment to Light It Up Blue,” said Peter Morton, Autism Speaks vice president of corporate development. “This program makes it easy for anyone to light up their home or business in a unique way.”

The Philips Blue A19 LED and blue floodlight bulbs are available in stores and online. 

Last year, 18,600 landmarks, buildings, communities and homes in 142 countries on all seven continents took part in Light It Up Blue. A photo gallery, along with ideas for taking part in the campaign, is on Autism Speaks’ website, www.autismspeaks.org/liub. The site also accepts donations to fund Autism Speaks’ mission.

About Autism

Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 68 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum. 

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $570 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 70 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

About The Home Depot

The Home Depot is the world's largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,274 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. In fiscal 2015, The Home Depot had sales of$88.5 billion and earnings of $7.0 billion. The Company employs more than 385,000 associates. The Home Depot's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor's 500 index.

About Philips Lighting

Philips Lighting, a Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) company, is the global leader in lighting products, systems and services. Our understanding of how lighting positively affects people coupled with our deep technological know-how enable us to deliver digital lighting innovations that unlock new business value, deliver rich user experiences and help to improve lives. Serving professional and consumer markets, we sell more energy efficient LED lighting than any other company. We lead the industry in connected lighting systems and services, leveraging the Internet of Things to take light beyond illumination and transform homes, buildings and urban spaces. In 2015, we had sales of EUR 7.4 billion and employed 33,000 people worldwide. News from Philips Lighting is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.

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