Cause Marketing/ Community Programs

GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. -- Dollar General have announced their partnership to increase awareness of autism and raise funds for autism research and advocacy during Autism Awareness Month in April.

“This disorder affects many of our customers and we are proud to help fund research for the cause,” said Rick Dreiling, chairman and CEO of Dollar General.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. and HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. -- Walmart and Sears Holdings have both announced their commitment to helping military members maintain employment when moving from one community to another.

Washington, D.C. -- On the heels of First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden’s “Joining Forces” military support announcement in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, Walmart has announced its Military Family Promise. 

The commitment guarantees a job at a nearby store or club for all military personnel, and military spouses, employed at Walmart and Sam's Club who move to a different part of the country because they or their spouse have been transferred by the United States military.

AUSTIN, Texas -- Whole Foods Market announced that it is on track to stop selling all red-rated swordfish and tuna at its seafood counters nationwide by this Earth Day, April 22.

 WEST DES MOINES, Iowa  -- Hy-Vee announced that it has enlisted the help of celebrity chef Curtis Stone to develop a series of recipes designed to bring families together for meals.

Under the exclusive agreement with Hy-Vee, Stone, who stars as an investor/mentor on NBC's "America's Next Great Restaurant." will be featured in the company's TV commercials, print ads and in-store promotional materials over the next two years, said Randy Edeker, president and COO of Hy-Vee.

CINCINNATI -- Kroger announced that it has set a 2015 goal of sourcing 100% of its top 20 wild-caught seafood species from sources certified by the Marine Stewardship Council, in full assessment, or involved in a Fishery Improvement Project with World Wildlife Fund.

New York City -- A judge ruled Thursday that a San Diego pro-gay marriage group can continue canvassing outside of Target stores in California, the Associated Press reported. However, protestors must stay 30 ft. away from store entrances and canvass at just one entrance at a time.

The retailer had sought an injunction barring the activists from every outlet in the state, alleging they harass customers by cornering them near store entrances to discuss gay marriage, solicit donations and collect signatures on petitions.