• by Tanya Gazdik , December 6, 2011

Allstate Insurance Co. is donating $10 to Autism Speaks for every insurance quote completed by Dec. 14, up to $500,000.

The “Quotes for Autism Speaks” program is to help advocate for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. People can visit AutismSpeaks.org/Allstate or call 1-866-998-4488 to complete the quote process.

Mark LaNeve, Allstate executive vice president, marketing and sales operations, is intimately connected with the cause, since he has twin boys who have autism.

“I recognize the magnitude of autism research, advocacy and outreach and the need to support families and individuals impacted by this disorder every day,” said LaNeve, who also serves on the board of directors for Autism Speaks. “Through Allstate’s support of this cause, we look forward to engaging families and communities to bring a stronger voice to Autism Speaks and support their mission.”

The online creative features Northbrook, Ill.-based Allstate employees (in addition to LaNeve) and members of their agency partners (Jeanie Caggiano of Leo Burnett) that have children with autism. 

According to autism statistics from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated one in 110 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism -- a 600% increase in the past two decades.

An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. This year, more children will be diagnosed with autism than with childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.

Autism Speaks is the world’s largest autism science and advocacy organization. Since its inception in 2005, Autism Speaks has raised over $160 million for research and developing innovative new resources for families. The organization 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.

Allstate also is currently running a “Shop Less Get More” radio spot that runs through the end of the year. Featuring Dennis Haysbert, the ad promotes free roadside assistance service.

Anyone, even those who do not use Allstate for insurance, can call an agent or 1-888-Allstate and sign up for free to receive access to the 24/7 nationwide network of reputable towing companies. The rates are flat and pre-negotiated so if a customer needs assistance they will only pay when they need it, not a yearly fee like some roadside assistance services. For example, people with passenger cars or light trucks will pay a flat rate of $75 for a tow up to 10 miles and $50 for other roadside events such as service for a flat tire, a dead battery or keys locked inside a car.