Through the ‘WISN 12 Day of Giving’ initiative, $88,280 was raised in support of Autism United of Wisconsin.
On April 16, generous viewers and local organizations donated to empower the organization in improving the lives of people with autism and their family members. The timely campaign took place during Autism Acceptance Month, which is celebrated every April.
“The generosity of our viewers is unparalleled,” said Shawn Oswald, President and General Manager of WISN 12. “Roughly 1 in 26 Wisconsin children are diagnosed with autism, so this charitable campaign will make a big impact on so many lives in our state.”
WISN 12 devoted significant coverage on-air, online, and through a phone bank for the fundraising effort. As a result, community members across southeastern Wisconsin donated money to support Autism United of Wisconsin in developing resources, providing training, hosting events, and offering programs.
Donations were bolstered by matching contributions from John and Bonnie Meerschaert, Nick and Kelly Backus, Riv and Alan Goldman, Unisource Insurance, Sysco, West Bend Insurance, and the Autism United of Wisconsin Board of Directors.
“Autism Acceptance Month is a call to action each April,” Oswald said. “And southeastern Wisconsin answered that call to help promote inclusion, understanding, and active participation involving people with autism.” WISN 12’s support for Autism United of Wisconsin is the latest fundraising effort in the ‘WISN 12 Day of Giving’ campaign. The ongoing charitable initiative supports a different local non-profit each month. Through the campaign, WISN 12 is helping organizations in advancing their mission, pursuing their goals, and most importantly, improving people’s lives. Since the launch of the ‘WISN 12 Day of Giving,’ the station has raised $357,631 for non-profit organizations in Wisconsin.
