Autism Speaks and White Castle Launch 'White Castle is Listening'

Autism Speaks and White Castle System, Inc. today announced “White Castle is Listening,” a statewide pledge by the restaurant chain to help raise awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

As part of the initiative, White Castle has committed to making all 45 of their Michigan locations Autism-friendly. Through the education of team members and a continued dedication to spread the word about autism the restaurant promises to work to provide those affected by ASD with a safe, positive experience at each of their locations.

The program was announced at a press conference today at the Southfield, MI White Castle store and is in conjunction with Autism Speaks’ ‘Michigan is Listening’. Michigan is Listening is an awareness campaign that asks the people of Michigan to pledge to tell 10 people about autism and encourages destinations across the state to pledge to become autism friendly. Launched at the Grand Traverse Lighthouse by Lt. Governor Brian Calley the initiative has quickly grown to include the Palace of Auburn Hills, Arts, Beats and Eats and other Michigan landmarks. White Castle is the first restaurant chain in the country to pledge to be Autism Friendly.

“We are excited to lead the way on this important charge,” said Jamie Richardson, White Castle Vice President.  “We look forward to providing top quality service for our guests on the spectrum while doing everything we can to help spread the word and help educate others on this disorder.”

White Castle’s Michigan Regional Director Mason Wolf echoed Richardson’s sentiment, “We are proud to expand our partnership with Autism Speaks. Our Michigan managers and team members are committed to making this program a huge success and we are confident we can make an impact on raising awareness.”

In addition to the autism friendly restaurants, the iconic fast food chain has expanded their pledge through an awareness contest that asks the public to snap a picture doing the Michigan is Listening pose onsite at a White Castle location, upload it to facebook.com/Michiganislistening and be entered in a sweepstakes to win a White Castle tailgate party. The restaurant is also offering a special coupon for two free sliders to any customer who makes the commitment to tell 10 people about autism.

“We are honored to have this partnership with White Castle,” said Tom Riopelle, Midwest Regional Director, Autism Speaks. “Awareness is key to early diagnosis and intervention for autism which affects 1 in 88 children. Partnering with such a well-loved national brand will help us reach countless people to engage in this quest.”

White Castle is Listening is an ongoing program across the state which will include upcoming dedication events at each of the White Castle stores in Michigan. For more information and to get involved visit facebook.com/michiganislistening.

Source: White Castle