Starting in 2008 as a wish for the “Once in a Lifetime Gala”, the Groteke family and Graeter’s Ice Cream got together to create Elena’s Blueberry Pie Ice Cream, named after Elena Desserich. Since then, the bestselling flavor has grown in its appeal and is now being sold nationwide with additional supermarkets added every day. And in tribute to her inspiration, the pints are decorated with her celebrated heart painting that also serves as the logo for The Cure Starts Now with proceeds from the flavor benefiting the efforts of The Cure Starts Now.

“In many ways, this is where it started,” says Chip Graeter, co-owner of Graeters. “Three years ago we joined the charity with the creation of this special flavor and have been committed to the cause ever since.” Now in tribute to the cause, Graeter’s has created the Cones for the Cure campaign in Cincinnati, OH, Columbus, OH, Dayton, OH, Louisville, KY, Lexington, KY and southern Indiana in partnership with Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Bent Web Development and Reach Magazine. Throughout the month of October, over 30 highway and street billboards will advertise the event thanks to the support of Lamar Advertising and over 500,000 homes will receive a mailing about the event thanks to Reach Marketing. In it, residents of select cities will find an offer for a free scoop of Elena Blueberry Pie Ice Cream they can then redeem at a local Graeter’s location. For residents with IPhones or Droid applications, a QR barcode is also provided allowing a virtual coupon and map directions to the closest Graeter’s location.

Also during Cones for the Cure, which runs October 14th through October 31st, Graeter’s will offer a gift booklet worth over $15 in savings for every donation of $5 or more to The Cure Starts Now.  Donors will also be honored with special ice cream cone signs paying tribute their support.  “It may be the very best way to make a difference while treating yourself to the best ice cream around,” says Graeter. We agree.