Dollar General will collect donations through April for Autism Speaks

Throughout April, more than 14,600 Dollar General retail locations across the 44 states it serves plans to collect donations to benefit Autism Speaks, the world’s largest autism science and advocacy organization. Customers may donate any amount at the checkout counter to support Autism Speaks, which is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of people with autism and their families. The partnership is now in its ninth consecutive year.

“An integral part of our mission of Serving Others is our commitment to investing in organizations that extend help and hope to our customers and the communities we serve,” said Dollar General’s senior director of community initiatives Denine Torr. “During the month of April, we look forward to raising awareness and funds for Autism Speaks’ research and advocacy efforts.”

The fundraising drive is among many activities during April’s World Autism Month, designed to promote understanding and acceptance of people with autism spectrum disorder, which affects an estimated one in 68 children. Donations to Autism Speaks fund cutting-edge research, advocacy initiatives and free resources. They include Autism Speaks Tool Kits and the Autism Response Team, which last year answered more than 70,000 inquiries.

“Dollar General has shown tremendous commitment to this campaign, and we’re deeply grateful for their partnership,” said Peter Morton, Autism Speaks vice president of corporate development. “Every donation helps provide services and resources that meet important needs for people with autism, at every stage of life.”