Every April, our supporters across the country come together to increase understanding and acceptance for people with autism. We are so grateful for their continued support this World Autism Month and in this edition of E-Speaks, invite you to learn more about the incredible companies working to create a more inclusive world, where all people with autism can reach their full potential.

T.J.Maxx helps advance our work for nearly two decades

For over 18 years, T.J. Maxx has supported Autism Speaks, raising over $30 million for its mission. This year, from April 10 through April 30, customers at T.J.Maxx stores nationwide can show their support for a kinder, more inclusive world by donating to Autism Speaks at the register. For more information about T.J. Maxx’s social responsibility efforts, click here.

Wilson promotes inclusion

Since 2019, Wilson and Autism Speaks have created on-field products to promote a message of inclusion, acceptance and understanding for people on the autism spectrum. Launched just a few days ago, the 2023 Love the Moment A2000 gloves will help players take the field and play with a purpose. Wilson will donate 10% of net sales from this product to Autism Speaks with a minimum donation of $150,000 each year.

Chuck E. Cheese hosts Sensory Sensitive Sunday events

Throughout April, Chuck E. Cheese locations in the U.S. and Canada hosted their autism awareness campaign where guests could donate to Autism Speaks by donating $1, $3, $5 or rounding up their purchases to the nearest dollar at checkout. On April 3, Chuck E. Cheese locations in the U.S. and Canada opened two hours early to host Sensory Sensitive Sunday events.

Studio Movie Grill supports the autism community

Throughout the month of April, Studio Movie Grill locations offered the “Blue Reel,” a blue colored, non-alcoholic beverage, at all 21 of their locations nationwide. $1 from each of the drinks sold will go back to Autism Speaks.

Great Wolf Lodge supports World Autism Month

To show their support of the autistic community, Great Wolf Lodge - the family-friendly indoor water park resort - is offering a special blue version of the brand’s signature wolf ears, available for a minimum $5 donation to Autism Speaks. The limited-edition collection of blue wolf ears will be available at the company’s 18 U.S.-based resorts until April 30, with all proceeds going to Autism Speaks. Read on in this feature article.

Tito's Handmade Vodka matches donations

Adding to the celebration, Great Wolf Lodge and Tito’s Handmade Vodka offered a “Blue Nation Spiked Lemonade” available at most Great Wolf Lodge locations (excluding Michigan and Ohio). Great Wolf Lodge donated $2 from every drink sold to Autism Speaks, Tito’s Handmade Vodka matched donations up to $3,000.

Foot Locker promotes autism acceptance

Foot Locker Inc. will make a $25,000 donation to Autism Speaks to kick off the launch of its custom-designed t-shirts with Spectrum Designs, an organization dedicated to creating meaningful and inclusive employment & vocational training opportunities in a neurodiverse world. The shirts, designed by neurodiverse individuals Dane Capo and Rebecca Oslaky, will be sold exclusively at Foot Locker, Inc. locations and complement the launch of the latest collection of adaptive footwear. Read on in this feature article.

The Home Depot helps to Light It Up Blue

The Home Depot brings brightness to the autism community by selling their specially packaged blue light bulbs for supporters to Light It Up Blue in celebration of April 2 World Autism Awareness Day and World Autism Month. The specially marked blue bulbs are available throughout all Home Depot stores in the United States.

Greensource spreads autism awareness

Greensource is a Seattle based apparel and accessories company with global production. In its fourth year, Greensource created a suite of autism awareness short and long sleeve t-shirts available locally at participating Walmart stores and online (while supplies last), where at least 2.5% of each item’s retail price is donated to Autism Speaks.

Charitable Adult Rides & Services (CARS) helps Autism Speaks raise over $1,000,000!

Since 2011, Autism Speaks has worked with Charitable Adult Rides & Services (CARS) to provide additional ways to support Autism Speaks. Supporters can donate their auto, boat or other motor vehicle and have the proceeds go to Autism Speaks. Donate online, via phone or by email. With the support of CARS, Autism Speaks has raised over $1,000,000! Supporters can learn more by visiting our auto donation site.