White Castle Raises over $1 Million for Autism Research

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Aug. 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- White Castle is celebrating its 90th birthday with the first induction of four former employees into the Team Member Hall of Fame, as well as presenting a check for $500,000 to Autism Speaks. This donation increases White Castle's total contribution to Autism Speaks to $1,006,000 in just over 18 months. The birthday event is set for this Thursday, August 25, at LifeCare Alliance, 670 Harmon Avenue in Columbus from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

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"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."

Team members to be inducted into the Hall of Fame include:

• Edgar W. "Billy" Ingram - founded White Castle in 1921 and served as its president through 1966, he is remembered for creating a culture that puts team members first.

• Edgar W. Ingram, Jr. - served as White Castle president from 1966 through 1979, he promoted innovation and forward thinking design as a means to better satisfying customers.

• Julia Joyce, White Castle's corporate hostess - visited clubs and organizations to promote eating hamburgers from the 1930s into the 1950s and in many ways she elevated the hamburger sandwich from novelty to a tasty and important staple as part of a balanced diet.

• Elaine Miseta - worked at the White Castle Home Office as Assistant to the President for 67 years setting the standard for loyalty in a company known for its team member's dedication.  Elaine will be at the event to receive her award.

White Castle also will present a check for $500,000 to Autism Speaks 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 over 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 August 20, while the distinctive hamburger scented candles were sold online and in stores.

During the event, White Castle will issue the Lighting the Way award to Cheryl Collier. She is 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.

About White Castle

White Castle is a family-owned business based in Columbus, Ohio that owns and operates 418 White Castle restaurants in 11 states. The company was founded in Wichita, Kansas in 1921 and is America's first fast-food hamburger chain. All White Castle Sliders are made from 100-percent USDA approved beef. This year, the company celebrates its 90th birthday with special events and promotions occurring throughout the year. For more information on White Castle, visit www.whitecastle.com.

SOURCE White Castle