Caribbean Bottling Company To Serve ‘Light It Up’ Signature Beverage at REACH Jazz Night Fundraiser

The Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) impacts an estimated 1 in every 160 children, worldwide. The Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC) partnered with the Seahorse Institute during Autism Awareness Month, which took place this past April, to help raise ASD awareness and funding for those impacted by the disorder. CBC pledged $1 to the Seahorse Institute for every Powerade bottle deposited into the school’s recycling bin, and recently presented Dr. Michelle Major, Seahorse Institute’s Executive Director, with a donation for $2,500.

Dr. Major, an internationally acclaimed expert in the field of Autism Spectrum Disorder, founded the Seahorse Institute, which provides intensive multidisciplinary intervention for individuals with ASD, Down Syndrome, Intellectual Disabilities, language disorders, and related behavioral challenges. As a non-profit organization, the school faces daily funding and awareness challenges.

“ASD impacts so many Bahamian men and women, and for Autism Awareness Month we aimed to support the amazing work of organizations like the Seahorse Institute” said Nikia Wells, CBC Marketing Manager-Communications. “We wanted to find a unique way to provide assistance to the Seahorse Institute while also doing some good for the environment. Our Mountain Blast blue Powerade was chosen in recognition of Autism Awareness Month’s blue ribbon. And, we decided to dedicate $1 for every bottle Powerade bottle that the school collected in their on-site recycling bin.”

The Seahorse Institute hosted a month long series of awareness and fundraising events and noted that the support of the Bahamian corporate community is vital for the work that they do. “The Seahorse Institute is proud to partner with companies who are committed to creating a Bahamas where children and adults with autism are accepted and respected,” said Dr. Major.

CBC also partnered with REACH Bahamas during Autism Awareness Month. In addition to a financial donation, the Caribbean Bottling Company took part in the REACH Spectrums of Jazz fundraiser and sponsored the group’s annual Fun, Run, Walk, which took place on May 12.

REACH is a non-profit organization that aims to increase autism awareness and education in The Bahamas by providing free services and resources to children and families affected by autism.