Light It Up Blue

For the second year, Al Di La is joining the crusade to raise awareness about Autism. During the month of March, the Avondale neighborhood trattoria is donating 10 percent of their Tuesday night sales to two Charleston-based Autism charities, Surfers Healing and Charleston Walk for Autism.
The promotion is part of Al Di La’s month-long kick off to World Autism Awareness Day, which is Thursday, April 2 and the date of their annual “Light It Up Blue Event” which will be held on that day. On this special date, the local autism community is invited to Al Di La to eat, drink, and celebrate and present the month-long funds raised to charity representatives.
“Light It Up Blue” refers to a global campaign started by Autism Speaks when thousands of iconic landmarks, communities, businesses and homes unite by shining bright blue lights in honor of the millions affected by autism.
Autism awareness is a cause extremely close to the hearts of Al Di La owners Mark and Gillian Kohn. In 2011, their oldest son Aksel was diagnosed with the complex brain development disorder. Since then, the Kohns know all too well the struggles and triumphs associated with Autism and have made it a mission to increase awareness of it.
Thanks to local charities like Surfers Healing and the Charleston Walk for Autism, Aksel and many other children affected by the disorder have been able to participate in alternative therapies including music, swimming, and even surfing.
“My husband and I are passionate about giving back to these entities,” says Gillian Kohn, “What they offer our son and all the special kids out there affected by Autism is priceless.”
In addition to donating 10 percent of all five Tuesday nights’ sales in March, Al Di La is also featuring special items for sale throughout March which directly benefit the charities. In fact, 100 of the proceeds from the sale of these items will be donated.
• Al Di La “Light It Up Blue” T-Shirts – $15-$20
• “Puzzle Piece” White Chocolate Mousse – $6
• Autism Awareness Wine Charms (4-Pack) – $12
• OneHope Cabernet – $30 bottle
Al Di La is located at 25 Magnolia Road. For more information, call 571-2321 or visit www.AlDiLaRestaurant.com.