The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism has introduced a new initiative, The Flourish Fund, in collaboration with Jersey Mike’s Subs. This $100,000 fund aims to provide financial support to families caring for individuals with autism, covering essential items and services such as communication tools, therapies, and recreational programs.
The Flourish Fund was announced on June 10 at Jersey Mike’s Subs in Point Pleasant Beach. This event marked the foundation's achievement of earning 100,000 Jersey Mike’s Shore Points through its “Meals for Autism” initiative. Doug Flutie expressed his gratitude by stating, "The Flutie Foundation is deeply honored to kickstart the Flourish Fund presented by Jersey Mike's."
Local leaders like Point Pleasant Beach Mayor Doug Vitale and others joined the event alongside autism-supportive groups including the Point Pleasant Challenger Flag Football and Basketball teams. Performances from STARS of the Spectrum featuring rapper C-Quig and singer-songwriter Cierra June highlighted the occasion.
This new fund builds on the success of the “Meals for Autism” program by pledging to purchase one meal per day throughout 2025 for families in need. The partnership between Jersey Mike’s and the Flutie Foundation has raised over $2.1 million over five years in support of autism initiatives.
The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation was founded by former NFL quarterback Doug Flutie and his wife Laurie in 1998 after their son Dougie was diagnosed with autism. Since then, it has distributed over $20 million to various organizations supporting people with autism.
Jersey Mike’s Subs is known for its community involvement and operates more than 4,000 locations worldwide.
