News

Mark Wahlberg returns to help Taco Bell graduation program

April 6, 2011

The Taco Bell Foundation for Teens will hold its Graduate To Go fundraiser through April 21 at participating Taco Bell restaurants nationwide.

During this time, customers can donate to the Graduate To Go cause, a long-term effort to raise awareness of the high school dropout crisis and encourage teenagers to get their diploma. The initiative also funds job training and college preparation to motivate teens.

Taco Bell restaurants will match customer contributions up to $1 million. This year's fundraiser will be boosted by the support of actor/producer Mark Wahlberg, who is serving as the program's ambassador for the second consecutive year.

Wahlberg will appear in an April national campaign to raise awareness and encourage support for the Graduate To Go program. His work with the Taco Bell Foundation is in addition to his own efforts through the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation.

"We are thrilled to announce our annual Graduate To Go Fundraiser and the continued support of Mark Wahlberg as our ambassador," said Bob Fulmer, executive director of the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens. "These funds will play an integral role in supporting a number of experiential teen programs proven to help teens stay in school."

The 2010 national fundraiser enabled the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens to grant $2.2 million to Boys & Girls Clubs and other partner organizations that inspire teens to graduate high school. This year, the foundation aspires to surpass this amount.

Throughout the fundraiser, customers are encouraged to donate $1 to the program. As thanks for their support, participating restaurants will give contributors a taco coupon.

During the fundraiser period, customers can also donate online and receive a taco coupon for contributing.