Every successful organization needs a cause that the people believe in. This cause is what makes the organization thrive and encourages all involved to give their best. 

In 2012, a group of people came together for a common cause – to help society as it had helped them. This belief was the force behind the creation of the DU Foundation. Since then, the foundation has been involved in philanthropic and charitable efforts to aid children from economically backward backgrounds in the sphere of education. 

Today, the DU Foundation is a registered charitable trust, recognized by the Government of India. In its nascent stage, the Foundation started with only 12 students. Nearly a decade later, 185+ students have benefitted from the Foundation’s facilities and are able to complete their preliminary & secondary education. Nearly 45+ students have finished their graduation & post-graduation due to the Foundation’s continual efforts to help the underprivileged and make a difference. 

In addition to providing aid for completing their education, the Foundation also provides amenities to facilitate studies. Some of these amenities include study materials, a study center for any assistance the students may require, a library, hostel facility, access to IT infrastructure, and guidance. The Foundation also focuses on extra- and co-curricular activities to aid in the all-around development of the children. Along with financial and logistic support for education, we organize events that help in giving the students a wholesome education, where they not only gain classroom knowledge but also the acumen to navigate the world as good, responsible citizens.

Ulhas Dewal

DU Foundation was started by Mr. Ulhas Dewal. A philanthropist, Mr. Dewal believes that society aids us in our journeys, and we should always strive to give back to it. As fate would have it, in 2012, he was presented with the opportunity to help the needy when he happened across some Adivasi students in dire need of financial assistance. He realized that a large portion of the Indian community is denied the right to basic education owing to inadequate funding and resources. Mr. Dewal is a key member of the DU Foundation and is always on the lookout for new educational initiatives to explore. 

Like all of us, Mr. Dewal had a dream – to manufacture specialty chemicals that will be in high demand all around the globe. With this singular purpose, he pursued a Masters in Chemical Technology from UDCT (now AICT) and founded his own chemical factory shortly after graduating in 1979. He always envisioned himself as a successful businessman in this area. With perseverance, hard work, and an absolute belief in himself, not only did he achieve his dream, but today ASHU GROUP exports 90% of its products. What started out as a single facility is now a company spanning 6 manufacturing units in Maharashtra and is also making its presence known in Gujarat.

Veena Dewal

An IIT Bombay alumna, Mrs. Veena Dewal was a professor of chemistry in a prestigious college in Mumbai for 8 years. She later partnered with her husband at the Ashu Group, a chain of chemical manufacturing firms. Here, she operated in every branch before ultimately deciding to handle the organization’s Accounting and Finance – the core of any institution. Shortly after retirement, she took over as executive director of the DU Foundation.

 The DU Foundation relies upon and benefits massively from her enthusiasm for teaching and her ability to impeccably manage the Foundation’s administrative responsibilities. It’s because of her zeal for academics that she adores working with underprivileged children and supporting them with their needs.

Shirish Pitale

Mr. Shirish Pitale’s parents spent their lives helping the tribespeople in and around Shahapur.  His father, a revolutionary, was also a part of India’s fight for freedom and was awarded the Tamra Patra by the Indian Government – a highly coveted honor. Mr. Pitale too has inherited this integrity and strong passion for social service, following the path his parents forged.

 Having grown up helping the economically disadvantaged, he is painfully aware of the plight of this community and has developed a strong desire to help those in need.

 The organization could not have found a finer trustee than the retired teacher from Thane’s M. H. High School, who has such a thorough understanding of the academic sphere. Having spent so much time around children, he can easily interact and bond with the pupils, who implicitly trust him and only benefit from his presence.

 As a native of Shahapur, he is well-versed with the area’s underlying difficulties and problems. He is a constant source of support for students needing help and guidance with any challenges they experience.

Shilpa Pitale

Mrs. Shilpa Pitale, the better half of Mr. Shirish Pitale, is another pillar of the Foundation’s local presence. A former school teacher, she has taken up social service with zeal just like her in-laws before her. In truth, she acquired these attributes from them, when they lived together in Shahapur. 

She’s a gifted orator who regularly interacts with the children in a manner that keeps them motivated, engaged, and focused. 

As a resident of Shahapur, she is a huge asset and helping hand to the trust when it comes to addressing and resolving day-to-day concerns and challenges. She is mindful of the key issues and is a go-to person for students when they run into obstacles.

Parul Dewal – Hande

A certified art therapist from the World Centre of Creative Learning (WCCL), Mrs. Parul Dewal-Hande also has a Masters in Industrial Psychology and a Diploma in Counselling Psychology under her belt. Over the past 8 years, she has helped teenagers and adults alike, deal with and overcome mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. She has also consulted with people to address concerns such as stress, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.

 From corporates, NGOs, orphanages, colleges, and children’s & adult mental health clinics – her clientele comprises people from a wide range of backgrounds. In an age where mental health issues have become increasingly common, she firmly believes that everyone is capable of healing and growth if they’re resilient.

 Hers is an eclectic approach, always mindful of the client’s level of comfort. She is constantly fine-tuning her techniques to ensure her clients receive the best experience on their journey to good mental health.