STRATHAM, N.H., Feb. 16 Lindt Chocolate, the world's leading producer of premium chocolate, and Autism Speaks, the nation's largest autism research and advocacy organization, today announces the second year of their partnership. To provide support to families affected by autism, Lindt will again support the non-profit through donations from sales of the iconic Lindt Gold Bunny. In addition, new partnership elements this year include an online auction and e-card donations to raise additional funds for the cause.
Advertisement
"We are thrilled to build upon our partnership with Autism Speaks this year, and to increase our support for families affected by autism," said Thomas Linemayr, chief executive officer and president, Lindt USA. "Not only is Lindt Gold Bunny the #1 chocolate bunny in the United States, it is also the bunny that gives back."
Advertisement
For every Lindt Gold Bunny sold in the United States, Lindt will donate 10 cents to Autism Speaks, beginning today and continuing until Easter, April 4, 2010*. Additionally, consumers can further support Autism Speaks by sending free e-cards available on www.LindtGoldBunny.com. For every Lindt e-card sent, Lindt will donate an additional $1 to Autism Speaks*.
"Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability, affecting one in every 110 children in the United States," said Mark Roithmayr, president of Autism Speaks. "We are so pleased to continue and grow our partnership with Lindt and value the company's commitment to support families affected by autism."
Lindt will also expand the Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism program to select three people making a difference for the autism cause in their family, home or community. The three Unsung Heroes will be honored at an event in New York City on April 1. To further support the partnership, this April Lindt will host an online auction of a collection of porcelain Lindt Gold Bunny figures, each autographed by a popular celebrity, including top actors, athletes, musicians and entertainers.
Lindt Gold Bunny
First introduced in 1952, Lindt Gold Bunny is the company's iconic Easter character. Today, Lindt Gold Bunny is the #1 selling chocolate bunny in the United States. It is available in six sizes and three varieties: white, milk and dark chocolate. Lindt Gold Bunny is the ideal premium addition to any Easter basket, and a perfect way for people to celebrate spring and help give back at the same time.
For more information on the Lindt and Autism Speaks partnership, on Lindt Gold Bunny and other seasonal products, or to send an Easter themed e-card that gives back, please visit www.LindtGoldBunny.com. For more information about Autism Speaks, please visit www.AutismSpeaks.org.
*Lindt will donate 10 cents to Autism Speaks for every Lindt Gold Bunny purchased from February 15 - April 4, 2010, up to $100,000. Lindt will donate $1 for every e-card sent, up to $5,000.
About Lindt & Sprungli
Founded in 1845, Lindt & Sprungli is a global leader in the premium chocolate category, offering high-quality products in more than 80 countries. Lindt & Sprungli operates eight production facilities in Europe and the United States and employs 6,300 worldwide. Lindt USA operates more than 70 retail stores throughout the country and maintains wide distribution through extensive retail and wholesale channels. For more information on Lindt, visit www.lindtusa.com.
About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization. Since its inception only five short years ago, Autism Speaks has made enormous strides, committing over $131 million to research and developing innovative new resources for families through 2014. The organization 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. In addition to funding research, Autism Speaks also supports the Autism Treatment Network, Autism Genetic Resource Exchange and several other scientific and clinical programs. Notable awareness initiatives include the establishment of the annual United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and an award-winning "Learn the Signs" campaign with the Ad Council which has received over $200 million in donated media. Autism Speaks' family resources include the Autism Video Glossary, a 100 Day Kit for newly-diagnosed families, a School Community Tool Kit, a community grant program and much more. Autism Speaks has played a critical role in securing federal legislation to advance the government's response to autism, and has successfully advocated for insurance reform to cover behavioral treatments. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 80 cities across North America. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit www.autismspeaks.org.
SOURCE Lindt & Sprungli
