McAlister's Deli has announced its national partnership with Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. Throughout the month of August, McAlister’s will turn its famous sugar cookies blue, in support of the organization’s signature color. $0.75 from each cookie sold will support Autism Speaks’ mission of funding scientific research, increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorder, and advocating for the needs of people with autism and their families. In addition, funds from this campaign will distribute back into the community, in the form of local grants awarded by Autism Speaks.
“With an estimated one in 68 children in the U.S. diagnosed with autism every year, it was extremely important to McAlister’s that we do something to help the families and communities impacted by the disorder,” says Rick Altizer, president of McAlister’s Deli. “We pride ourselves on treating each and every guest that walks through our doors with genuine hospitality, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Autism Speaks shares this goal of inclusion, and we are honored to be working with them throughout August.”
In addition to monetary donations, McAlister’s has developed a series of awareness activities for the whole family to enjoy both in and outside of the restaurant, including a blue sugar cookie recipe, puzzle piece coloring sheets, and an educational foldable activity. Guests are invited to download the craft activities on the McAlister’s website and to share their masterpieces with the hashtag #McAlistersForACause.
