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In 2022, Wonderful Citrus organized the first Run for Autism in Mission, Texas, with a goal of raising funds to address the lack of programming for children with autism in the region. Through contributions from employees, residents, and the Resnicks, through their foundation, we raised $30,000 to increase autism awareness and support community programming at Sharyland Independent School District (ISD). By bringing together families, educators, and local businesses, the event now serves as a community pillar in fostering relationships and a deeper understanding of children on the autism spectrum.
Following the success of the first run, Wonderful Citrus held their second annual run in September 2023, bringing together a total of 800 supporters of all ages and fitness levels at Bentsen Palm Community Park to participate in the 5K, 10K, and family fun run. Participants also enjoyed a variety of refreshments and treats donated by The Wonderful Company, including POM Wonderful teas, FIJI Water, and Wonderful Pistachios.
In addition to receiving support from local Wonderful Citrus Texas employees, participants received support from many of our colleagues based in California and Mexico, as well as Zak Lafitte, president of Wonderful Citrus, all of whom came to support this important cause.
A total of $35,000 was raised by residents and our employees, along with a donation from the Resnicks, through their foundation, to support one of Sharyland ISD’s initiatives, Simply Social – an after-school extracurricular program dedicated to helping students with autism develop social and behavioral skills and preparing them for independent living.
Employees and community members of all ages came together to participate in this important cause for autism. Not only did this event have a deep impact on our community, promote our efforts as Wonderful Neighbors, and show our overall commitment to our philanthropic efforts, but it also encouraged participants to get active in a fun way!
Leo Espinosa
director of sales at Wonderful Citrus
The success of the second annual run is a testament to the strength of our commitment and the power of community engagement when we come together as Wonderful Neighbors. Thank you to our employees, their families, and the community for their collective efforts, generosity, and collaboration in making a positive difference!
