Advance Auto Parts has announced the launch of its 2012 sneaker sales campaign. This year marks Advance’s 19th consecutive year of support for JDRF in its efforts toward curing, treating and preventing type 1 diabetes. In the past 18 years, Advance has raised more than $31 million for JDRF, including a record-breaking campaign that raised $5 million for diabetes research in 2011, making Advance JDRF’s No. 1 corporate partner in 2011.

“Our annual JDRF Sneaker Campaign is an inspiring time of year for our company because it clearly shows our team’s commitment to serving our community. The $31 million-plus that we have raised over the years is proof that service is our best part – not only for our commercial and DIY customers, but for our communities as well,” said Darren Jackson, president and CEO. “This year, our team is asking every customer to buy a pair of sneakers to double their support for curing juvenile diabetes and be a superhero’s hero. Our team is striving to save the day for people suffering from type 1 diabetes.”

The company’s sneaker sales program, which will be held at more than 3,600 stores in 39 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, runs through Oct. 6. Customers purchase paper sneakers that benefit the charity including $1, $5, $25 or $50 sneakers. The Advance team then displays the customer-purchased paper sneakers in the store windows to show support for this worthwhile cause. Proceeds from every sneaker sold go directly to JDRF and help bring the organization one step closer to finding a cure.

In addition to the retail store Sneaker Campaign, Advance is raising additional donations from fundraising events at the company’s distribution centers and store support center. Planned events include silent auctions, golf tournaments and participation in multiple local JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes events.