Advance Auto Parts raises $2.2 million for diabetes research

Advance Auto Parts news release
Published: January 7, 2009

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is proud to announce that Advance Auto Parts, Inc., a leading automotive aftermarket retailer of parts, batteries, accessories, and maintenance items, and national JDRF corporate partner, has raised over $2.2 million in support of diabetes research in 2008.  This year marks Advance’s 15th consecutive year of support for JDRF in the search to find a cure for type-1 (juvenile) diabetes. In the past 15 years, Advance has raised more than $16.5 million for JDRF. 

“The Advance Auto Parts Team is proud to be a national partner of JDRF in its race to cure diabetes,” said Darren Jackson, President and CEO of Advance Auto Parts. “Supporting JDRF is an important part of our company culture and the national campaign is an opportunity for our Team Members to give back to the communities in which they live and work.”

Throughout the year, Advance Team Members and customers are tireless in their efforts in support of diabetes research. Every September, the Company holds an annual JDRF “sneaker” sales program in more than 3,300 stores in 40 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.  Customers purchase paper “sneakers” for $1. Through the generosity of Advance Auto Parts customers, the sneaker campaign alone raised more than $1.75 million in support of JDRF.  In addition, the Company raised more than $450,000 through its Store Support Center in Roanoke, Virginia and in distribution centers across the country by participating in local Walk to Cure Diabetes events, hosting golf tournaments, silent auctions, and other fundraisers. The total campaign fundraising of $2.2 million sets a new record for Advance Auto Parts, making Advance JDRF’s number one retail fundraising partner in 2008.

“We appreciate the tremendous participation from both our do-it-yourself and commercial customers. Their contributions have helped Advance donate $16.5 million in the past 15 years to diabetes research,” said Keith Oreson, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, and Chairman of the company’s JDRF campaign.

“JDRF is very proud of the ongoing support and tremendous dedication Advance Auto Parts has shown in helping to fight type 1 diabetes and its complications,” said Benita Shobe, Senior Vice President of JDRF.  “Congratulations and thank you to Advance Auto Parts, its customers and Team Members for 15 years of incredible support.”