NORTHBROOK, Ill., Nov. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- According to autism
statistics from the United States Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, an estimated one in 110 children in the U.S. are
diagnosed with autism – a 600 percent increase in the past two
decades. To help address this trend and support autism research and
advocacy efforts, Allstate Insurance Company (NYSE: ALL) today
announced the launch of the "Quotes for Autism Speaks" program. As
part of the program, Allstate will donate $10 to Autism Speaks for every insurance quote
that is completed between November 14 and
December 14, 2011, with the goal of raising $500,000 for the cause.
Individuals who receive an insurance quote will help Allstate
reach the $500,000 goal and help
change the future for those who struggle with autism. Quotes may be
obtained online at AutismSpeaks.org/Allstate or by calling
866-998-4488.
"As a father of twin boys with autism, I recognize the magnitude
of autism research, advocacy and outreach and the need to support
families and individuals impacted by this disorder every day," said
Mark LaNeve, Allstate executive vice
president, marketing & sales operations, who also serves on the
board of directors for Autism Speaks. "Through Allstate's support
of this cause, we look forward to engaging families and communities
to bring a stronger voice to Autism Speaks and support their
mission."
An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of
millions worldwide are affected by autism. This year, more children
will be diagnosed with autism than with childhood cancer, juvenile
diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.
"We are extremely grateful to Allstate for its commitment to
raise awareness and funds for the autism community," said
Mark Roithmayr, president of Autism
Speaks. "'Quotes for Autism Speaks' is a wonderful program that has
the potential to touch the lives of countless families affected by
autism. We encourage everyone to show their support and contact
Allstate for their free quote."
About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest
publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good
Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary
as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to
help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and
better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance
products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through
Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive
financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and
1-800 Allstate®.
About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the world's largest autism science and advocacy
organization. Since its inception in 2005, Autism Speaks has made
enormous strides, committing over $160
million to research and developing innovative new resources
for families. 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 has created resources
and programs including the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network,
Autism Speaks' 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, which Autism Speaks celebrates through its Light it Up
Blue initiative. Also, Autism Speaks award-winning "Learn the
Signs" campaign with the Ad Council has received over $300 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
Grandparent's Guide to Autism, and a community grant program.
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 in 29 states thus far, with bills pending in an
additional 10 states. 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 Allstate Insurance Company