That’s why the president and CEO of ArcelorMittal Dofasco was all smiles as he announced the steel company’s renewed financial commitment to a number of key events and organizations in Hamilton.

“It’s been a challenging year,” said Mr. Schachler at a press conference held Oct. 30 to officially launch ArcelorMittal Dofasco’s Community Strength campaign.

“But ArcelorMittal Dofasco remains committed to supporting the community. To remain strong, and on the leading edge, we need a vibrant community with a high quality of life.”

The Community Strength campaign will see ArcelorMittal Dofasco invest about $3 million in seven key areas –arts, social services, healthcare, environment, education, sport and the United Way.

“There is a premium we place on our relationship with the community,”said Graham Browne, vice president of corporate affairs. “Our employees are active in all aspects of the community and also contribute financial resources with the aim to have the broadest impact. A strong ArcelorMittal Dofasco equals a strong community.”

The company’s $3 million pledge is a combination of its own corporate donations and payroll contributions from it’s 5,000- strong workforce.

The Community Strength campaign will run for the next seven weeks and wrap up just before the company Christmas Party.

ArcelorMittal Dofasco’s Hamilton operations has established itself as one of the economic pillars of the company’s overall global operations.

Not only does the company and its employees contribute to local events and organizations, but it also continues to make key investments aimed at improving internal operations.

Each year, ArcelorMittal Dofasco invests more than $500 million in its Hamilton operation.

In September, ArcelorMittal Dofasco announced the Blue Skies Air Quality Improvement Plan, a $16 million investment aimed at reducing air emissions from the Hamilton operation. The company is also spending $7.5 million to upgrade water treatment.