News

White Castle's Autism Speaks campaign nets $1 million

August 24, 2011

White Castle's fundraising campaign for Autism Speaks has raised $1,006,000 in just over 18 months.

The chain will present a check for $500,000 to the organization today in Columbus, Ohio, at a 90th birthday celebration and Team Member Hall of Fame induction.

The latest fundraising installment comes from the combined proceeds of two charity campaigns. The proceeds were raised from the sale of The Original Slider-scented candles and a month-long puzzle piece campaign at more than 400 White Castle restaurants in 11 states.

Customers contributed $1 at a time for Autism Speaks Puzzle Pieces at local restaurants from July 24 through Aug. 20, while the distinctive hamburger-scented candles were sold online and in stores.

During today's event, White Castle will also issue the Lighting the Way award to Cheryl Collier, a White Castle team member from Detroit. Collier, a cancer survivor, volunteers her time to Wigs 4 Kids. The award recognizes a White Castle team member who is "Lighting the Way" for others through outstanding contributions to civic or charitable groups. Collier will be given the opportunity to award a $10,000 check from White Castle to a charity of her choice.

Additionally, four White Castle team members will be inducted into the Hall of Fame including:

• Edgar W. "Billy" Ingram - founded White Castle in 1921 and served as its president through 1966.
• Edgar W. Ingram, Jr. - served as White Castle president from 1966 through 1979.
• Julia Joyce, White Castle's corporate hostess - visited clubs and organizations to promote eating hamburgers from the 1930s into the 1950s.
• Elaine Miseta - worked at the White Castle Home Office as assistant to the president for 67 years. She will be in attendance to receive her award.

"We're very excited about this event, for the first time we will honor White Castle team members who have demonstrated life-long commitment and made lasting impact on the White Castle business," said Jamie Richardson, vice president at White Castle. "Celebrating the past with our team members inspires us to look to the future as we continue to grow. We'll also celebrate making a difference in people's lives by highlighting our efforts to give back to community."

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