Circle K Stores Deck the Walls This Holiday Season to Benefit People with Disabilities

United Cerebral Palsy Associations
Thursday, 9 November 2000

16th Annual "Hang a Wreath for UCP"

PHOENIX, Ariz. (November 9, 2000) - In ancient Rome, decorative wreaths were hung on doors as a sign of victory. Since that time, many wreaths have been made. Some are made for crafts, others purely for decoration, and yet others have a deeper meaning....

Circle K stores nationwide have begun the 16th Annual "Hang a Wreath for UCP" holiday fundraiser to benefit UCP -- a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the independence of people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. "Hang a Wreath for UCP" encourages Circle K customers to make a one dollar donation in exchange for recognition on a paper holiday wreath supplied by Miller Brewing Company. Each personalized wreath will be displayed on Circle K store walls throughout December 31. Last year's program raised more than $450,000.

"Every wreath hung in our stores represents both our employees and customer's enthusiastic support for people with disabilities," said Paul Oves, vice president of public affairs for Tosco Marketing Company, which owns the Circle K brand. "We're proud to recognize every customer for helping us make our holidays more meaningful and festive."

As a national sponsor of UCP since 1984, Circle K has raised more than $30 million to date. Circle K employees, customers and vendors raise funds for UCP throughout the year via coin collection canisters in every site and special events such as the "Hang a Wreath" program, golf tournaments and casual days.

"We are very pleased that Circle K and Miller Brewing Company have joined forces again this year to help raise funds for UCP," said Paul Burke, national director of marketing for UCP. "Not only is this a fun and easy way for the community to make a difference during the holidays, but a great way to help UCP provide needed services to people with disabilities."

UCP is a private, non-profit health and human service organization for children and adults with disabilities and their families. Their innovative programs help children and adults with such disabilities as cerebral palsy, down syndrome, spina bifida, attention deficit disorder, paralysis, autism and learning disabilities.

For more information, or to contact United Cerebral Palsy Associations, see their website at: www.ucpa.org