Autism Speaks and Lindt Seeking Nominations for 'Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism'

STRATHAM, N.H., Jan. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Lindt Chocolate, the world's leading producer of premium chocolate, announces it is accepting nominations for the Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism program. For the second year, Lindt will honor ordinary individuals who are extraordinary champions for those affected by autism in their family, home or community.  The Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism program is part of Lindt's partnership with Autism Speaks, the nation's largest autism research and advocacy organization.  

Now through February 15, 2010, people can visit www.LindtGoldBunny.com to nominate themselves or someone they know for the opportunity to be chosen as one of three Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism. The honorees will each receive $5,000 toward their efforts and initiatives supporting those affected by autism. In addition, the three individuals will be honored with recognition at, and paid travel to, a Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism event in New York City, and will also be featured on LindtGoldBunny.com.  

"We're thrilled to be making the Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism program even more impactful in its second year, and to continuing to build our relationship with Autism Speaks," said Thomas Linemayr, chief executive officer and president, Lindt USA.  "We are proud to honor these extraordinary individuals and to give them the recognition they so richly deserve."

"People everywhere are touched daily by the effects of autism," said Mark Roithmayr, President of Autism Speaks. "We are delighted that Lindt has chosen to honor these unsung heroes, the people working every day to make an impact, whether in their own lives or those of others."

Nomination Details

Individuals can nominate themselves or someone they know to be considered as a Lindt Unsung Hero of Autism.  To be eligible, nominees must be 14 years or older and residents of the 48 continental United States or the District of Columbia.  Entries must consist of a 250-500 word essay describing how the nominee embodies a Lindt Unsung Hero of Autism. A panel of judges, including representatives from Lindt and Parents magazine, will review the submissions based on the following criteria:

• Demonstration of a strong and sustained commitment to autism, including a personal sacrifice
• Illustration of a creative and innovative concept that furthers the goals of living with autism, raising awareness and/or research initiatives in his/her community
• Impact of individual contributions on the lives of others or on his/her community who are impacted by autism
• Identifiable changes that have been the result of the individual's activities

To enter a Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism nomination or to view the official rules and guidelines, please visit www.LindtGoldBunny.com.

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