Publix Super Markets honored for commitment to Special Olympics during annual Gold, Silver and Bronze gala 

Publix Super Markets received the 2008 “Spirit of Special Olympics” award on March 1, during Special Olympics Florida’s annual Gold, Silver and Bronze black-tie Gala in Orlando. The award is given annually to an individual or organization that works to support the mission of Special Olympics and to enrich the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.

Gala host, and Special Olympics Florida Board member, Jim Payne recognized Publix “for being the single longest-standing sponsor in the history of Special Olympics Florida, for its commitment to the dreams, dignity and rights of people with intellectual disabilities, for its steadfast financial support, and for being a model of philanthropic responsibility and community action.”

Accepting on behalf of Publix was Maria Brous, Director of Media and Community Relations, and Publix Associate and Special Olympics athlete Chris Friedman of Altamonte Springs, FL. Brous commented that Publix was honored to receive the award, but for Publix, their support of Special Olympics is just part of their corporate philosophy of “doing the right thing.”

A supporter of Special Olympics for thirty-six years, Publix serves as a major sponsor of Special Olympics in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina and has an industry-leading history of hiring people with intellectual disabilities, many of whom participate in Special Olympics. Perhaps most importantly, thanks to the efforts of Publix Associates and the generosity of Publix customers, over the past 14 years, Publix Super Markets has raised nearly $12 million for the charity.

Publix is privately owned and operated by its 146,000 employees, with 2007 sales of $23 billion. Currently Publix has 928 stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee. The company has been named one of FORTUNE’s “100 Best Companies to Work for in America” for 11 consecutive years. In addition, Publix’s dedication to superior quality and customer service is recognized as tops in the grocery business, most recently by an American Customer Satisfaction Index survey. For more information, visit www.publix.com. 
 

See gala photos!