Joe's Crab Shack Raises $1.3M in 30 Days for Autism Speaks

HOUSTON, May 14, 2014

"We are grateful for the outstanding commitment Joe's and its guests have shown the autism community both locally and nationally," said Autism Speaks President Liz Feld. "The #JoesGoesBlue campaign brought awareness to new audiences. And Joe's fundraising efforts will further our investment in innovative research, and our advocacy efforts for individuals and families affected by autism."

Throughout April, Joe's collected donations for Autism Speaks through the sale of coupons and specially made "Peace of the Puzzle" tie-dye T-shirts. Joe's is recognizing the top 10 fundraising general managers with a trip to Chicago to participate in a 2014 Walk Now for Autism Speaks event on May 17.

"Our teams were passionate about finding ways to engage guests and raise money for a cause that is very near and dear to so many of us," said Joe's Crab Shack President Jim Mazany. "Thanks to their hard work, along with the support of our guests, we can donate more than a million dollars back to the people in our communities dedicated to solving the autism puzzle."

Over the last three years, Joe's Crab Shack has donated more than $5 million to support children's causes.

About Joe's Crab Shack
Founded in Houston in 1991, Joe's Crab Shack brings "100% Shore" fresh seafood, authentic flavors and Southern flair to more than 135 locations in more than 30 states. Joe's menu features more than 25 crab items in addition to fish, lobster, mussels, clams and shrimp. The company supports causes in every neighborhood it serves and is a leading national partner with both Autism Speaks and Share Our Strength's No Kid Hungry® Campaign. Joe's is a member of the Ignite Restaurant Group (NASDAQ: IRG) portfolio of restaurants. For more information, go to www.joescrabshack.com.

About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Mr. Wright is the former vice chairman of General Electric and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $195 million to research and developing innovative resources for families. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 100 cities across North America. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships and related activities in more than 40 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.