Dubai Aluminium (Dubal) has raised Dh200,000 ($54,451) in support of the Dubai Autism Center (DAC), through an internal campaign involving its employees.

The campaign, which ran throughout April (marked as ‘autism month’ worldwide), together with a direct cash donation from Dubal will be used to construct a better treatment centre that can accommodate more children with autism in the UAE, said a statement.

Driven by the slogan “Their passion … our support”, the campaign comprised the Dubai Flea Market, where unwanted items donated by employees were sold, a payroll deduction initiative, and proceeds from a raffle draw.

“Involving our employees in Dubal's corporate social responsibility initiatives has had considerable impact,” said Mohammed Yahya, manager, corporate relations and international affairs.

“Not only does it give them opportunities to channel their efforts in this area, but also adds value by enabling Dubal to become more directly involved in the needs of the society, especially as many employees’ family members also participate in our outreach activities.”

Dubal has supported DAC in several ways since 2009, with activities including initiatives to help raise awareness of autism, raise funds, provide skills training and development opportunities to the center’s administration personnel, rebuild their warehouse and implement a stock management system. - TradeArabia News Service