GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) - Jersey Mike’s locations across Wisconsin were packed as customers lined up for the annual Day of Giving. The event donates 100% of sales to Special Olympics Wisconsin, supporting thousands of athletes across the state. Throughout March, Jersey Mike’s has been collecti ng donations as part of its Month of Giving, leading up to this highly anticipated day.  Across the country, the sandwich chain is partnering with local charities to give back to the communities they serve. In Wisconsin, that support goes directly to Special Olympics athletes, helping fund training, competitions, and health programs. Luxemburg-Casco students explore career opportunities at trades event Restaurant staff have been preparing for weeks, stocking up on supplies and scheduling extra hands for what is typically their busiest day of the year. Operations Director Sean Pollard of the Jersey Mike's in Bellevue said the effort is well worth it. "I walked in here at 6:30 a.m., getting ready, slicing onions and lettuce, doing the bacon, baking the bread," Pollard said. "The team starts walking in at 9:00-9:30—this is the Super Bowl, let’s get ready, guys." The impact of Jersey Mike’s fundraising efforts extends far beyond a single day. Addie Teeters, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for Special Olympics Wisconsin, emphasized how critical this partnership is to their mission. "Jersey Mike’s is Special Olympics Wisconsin’s largest corporate partner, and this is an impact that gets us through our entire year of sports competitions," Teeters said. Hatco Corporation marks 75th anniversary with $75K donation to fight hunger The support also comes at an important time, as Special Olympics athletes in Wisconsin prepare for a national stage. The USA Special Olympics Games will be held in Minnesota next year, and the funds raised from Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving will help ensure that local athletes have the resources they need to compete at the highest level. Beyond the fundraising, Pollard says the event is about bringing people together and making a difference in the community. Earlier this month, Jersey Mike’s employees participated in the Green Bay Polar Plunge to raise additional funds and awareness for Special Olympics Wisconsin. "We’re going out in the community, not just giving back in the store," Pollard said. "It’s amazing as a company that we’re able to provide for both our employees and charities all over." With hundreds of Jersey Mike’s locations nationwide taking part in this initiative, the impact of this year’s Day of Giving will be felt well beyond Wisconsin. But for the athletes who benefit, the support of their local community means everything. ...read more read less