O2 Ireland chose Irish Autism Action as its Charity of Choice in 2006 for three years. The 3 year partnership between O2 and Irish Autism Action was officially launched at the ABACAS School in Kilbarrack at the end of January 2006. Over the three years, both O2 and the IAA will work in partnership with the objective of making a tangible and positive difference to the lives of individuals and their families affected by autism.

In order to achieve this goal O2 and the IAA have identified four key focus areas of activity including:
- Generating a volunteering programme enabling O2 employees to donate their time and expertise to the IAA
- Developing a range of fundraising initiatives led by O2 staff
- Building awareness and understanding of autism and its effects across a range of audiences including O2 employees, customers and the general public
- Optimising O2’s technology and services to facilitate the IAA and those affected by autism

Speaking at the partnership launch event held, Danuta Gray, O2 Ireland Chief Executive said: “Our decision to partner with the IAA was taken following an extensive consultation process among staff at O2 who chose youth and disability, particularly in the area of communications, as our community investment theme. The IAA is a charity which we feel reflects the values of O2 and has a very clear vision for the future. Through enabling the involvement of our employees and a commitment of financial resources, O2 will work with the IAA over the next three years to realise this vision and make a real difference to the lives of those affected by autism and those who care for them.”

Also commenting on the partnership, IAA Chairman, Cormac Rennick said: “With no cure and with numbers of diagnosis rising, those affected by autism and their families face an uphill battle which is aggravated by a lack of services, available information and a poor general awareness and understanding of the condition. In partnership with O2, IAA can work to change this. With the financial support and commitment of resources from O2, IAA is better positioned than ever to accomplish our mission to provide the highest standards of education, care and support to individuals and families who face the challenges of autism on a daily basis.”