More than two decades ago, Aisles of Smiles began as a notion held by a father whose son had muscular dystrophy.Hank Lautrup was a food broker employed by Southern California based Kelley-Clarke, Inc.  Hank’s son, Timmy, was seen at MDA's clinic and attended MDA’s summer camping program, all while his dad was involved on the local MDA Executive Committee.  Hank saw the type of events and money being raised by other sponsors such as 7‑Up, Anheuser‑Busch, Harley‑Davidson and others and figured why couldn’t his industry - - the food industry - - also have a program that could raise money supporting MDA while also serving as a mechanism to boost his employer’s sales business?  It was that inspiration that led Hank to propose a merchandizing event titled Aisles of Smiles.The concept was simple.Manufacturers represented by Kelley-Clarke would pay a participation fee in turn for which they’d receive special ad placement and point-of-sale materials that would link their brands to MDA’s cause.Sales of these brands would be promoted in-store and through newspaper, television and radio public service announcements. 

That first year, the program generated $50,000.From that humble beginning, the program has risen to become a $10 million annual fund‑raising event.

Hank and Timmy’s story is one that continues to inspire the program’s success and effectiveness.  Everyone smiles with Aisles of Smiles.Retailers benefit from increased traffic and sales.Manufacturers obtain a spike in sales activity on participating brands and shoppers benefit through great deals.  Ultimately, it’s “Jerry’s kids” who benefit most knowing that dollars raised through Aisles of Smiles are funding life‑saving research and supporting clinic and patient services that bring hope for today.