HOUSTON, April 1, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Starting today, Joe's Crab Shack has launched the restaurant's third annual fundraiser for Autism Speaks, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization. 100 percent of donations will go towards funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism spectrum disorders.  

Throughout the month of April, Joe's Crab Shack guests who donate $2, $5 or $10 will receive discounts of $5, $10 or $20 off their next visit. Plus, 10 percent of proceeds from the signature tie-dye T-shirt will go to Autism Speaks. Online donations will also be rewarded with discounts at www.joescrabshack.com/autismspeaks .

Social fans of Joe's Crab Shack can join in the fun and support the cause with an Instagram and Facebook contest, now in its second year. The contest encourages guests to build awareness of the cause by posting blue selfies with the hashtag #JoesGoesBlue.  Joe's Crab Shack will award gift cards to the top winners and at the end of the month feature guests' photos in a puzzle mosaic on its social media sites.

About Joe's Crab Shack
Founded in Houston in 1991, Joe's Crab Shack brings its fresh seafood, authentic flavors and Southern flair to more than 135 locations in more than 30 states. Joe's menu is "100% Shore," featuring more than 25 crab items in addition to fish, lobster, mussels, clams and shrimp. 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
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 68 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum. 

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. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $525 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research . To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

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SOURCE Joe's Crab Shack