A Life-Changing Introduction to Philanthropy
Today, as I look back on my introduction to the world of genuine philanthropy, I feel a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility. This journey has been transformative, showing me that anyone, regardless of financial status, can make a meaningful impact. Before this realization, my involvement in charitable activities was minimal and only when prompted. I mistakenly believed that giving back was for others, not me. However, I have since learned that we all have the capacity to help others, in ways both big and small.
The Birth of the RE/MAX and Friends Foundation
In 2013, I co-founded the RE/MAX and Friends Foundation after a fellow RE/MAX agent was diagnosed with cancer. This event marked a turning point. Our franchise owners and I recognized the enormous responsibility we had, knowing that just over 300 families depended on us. We decided to establish a fund to assist agents in need and the general public, especially in situations not covered by National Insurance. This initiative was more than just a gesture; it was a commitment to our community.
Embracing Responsibility and Leadership
As we embarked on this philanthropic journey, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to ensure the success and sustainability of our efforts. While I had the support of our management and committee, it was clear that someone needed to take on the role of a key pillar—to push the envelope, coordinate, and manage the projects effectively. I took on this role personally, recognizing that while our people were passionate about the cause, they were also running their own businesses and couldn’t be expected to lead these initiatives.
Rounding up people and selling the vision of our projects was one of the most rewarding aspects of my role. Seeing the buy-in from our team was inspiring, but I knew that the execution of these projects required dedicated leadership. This understanding motivated me to take charge and ensure that each project was managed with care and precision.
Sustaining the Foundation
Over the years, I have dedicated significant time to ensuring the foundation’s sustainability and relevance. We established a board of members to oversee decisions and manage the NGO according to guidelines set by the relevant authorities. Our early efforts involved supporting some of Malta’s most active NGOs, with annual donations ranging from €5,000 to €10,000 to organizations like the Malta Community Chest Fund, Puttinu Cares, and Dar Tal-Providenza. Despite these efforts, questions arose from our members about the impact of our donations. This led us to involve our staff, agents, managers, and franchise owners in the decision-making process, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in the foundation’s work.
A Transformative Project: The Rainbow Ward
As the COO of RE/MAX Malta at that time, I took it upon myself to deepen our cultural involvement in philanthropy. I initiated a project that would have a lasting impact: the complete refurbishment of the children’s cancer ward, known as the Rainbow Ward, and its external play area. This project, in collaboration with the NGO Putinu Cares, involved selecting an interior designer, sourcing suppliers, negotiating special rates, and numerous meetings with key stakeholders. The project culminated in a grand unveiling, attended by Malta’s Minister of Health, Chris Fearne, and President Marie-Louise Colero Preca.
The true impact of this project hit me on the day of the launch when I saw a young boy, who had been undergoing treatment, playing outside with his father. The father shared that this was the first time in months that he had seen his son smile and enjoy himself. This moment brought tears to my eyes and made me realize the profound difference our efforts had made. The €75,000 we spent on this project was well worth it, as the Rainbow Ward continues to provide solace, joy, and encouragement to children and their families.
Expanding Our Philanthropic Efforts
Buoyed by the success of the Rainbow Ward project, we embarked on other initiatives, including granting wishes to sick children featured on the television show Arani Issa, hosted by Joseph Chetchuti.
One of our most significant projects was the #LetThemRead campaign, a fundraising marathon to raise €80,000 for reading devices for 90 visually disabled children. This project, under the auspices of President Emeritus Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and The Malta Presidents Trust Foundation, brought the RE/MAX family together. We organized 34 events over five weeks, each aiming to raise at least €2,000. Although we fell just €2,000 short of our goal, the campaign was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of collective effort.
The Blossom Foundation: Addressing Poverty and Mental Health
Another project close to my heart is the Blossom Foundation, introduced to me by entrepreneur Claudine Cassar. Claudine had commissioned a study to investigate the state of poverty in the Saint Paul’s Bay area and its effects on the local state school. The findings were alarming, revealing a significant increase in homelessness, domestic violence, and mental health issues among the children.
The Blossom Foundation responded by hiring additional counselors and enlisting volunteers to support the school’s nearly 3,800 students. As the first corporate supporter of this initiative, we continue to back the foundation, which now operates under the Malta Trust Foundation, more than a decade later.
Supporting the Beating Hearts Foundation and Save and Support Trust
More recently, we have supported the Beating Hearts Foundation Malta and the Save and Support Trust. Working with Professor Victor Grech, a consultant paediatrician specializing in congenital heart disease, we helped fund coffee table books and calendars created by Professor Grech. These items are sold to generate funds for the two organizations. The Beating Hearts Foundation focuses on congenital heart disease research, equipment, and support for affected families, while the Save and Support Trust funds various other charitable projects.
Supporting the ALIVE Charity Foundation
Another significant partnership was with the ALIVE Charity Foundation, where we served as the main sponsor for five years. The ALIVE Charity Foundation, recognized as a non-governmental organization, has made substantial strides in raising funds for medical research in Malta, particularly in the fight against cancer. The Foundation’s primary focus is to fund Ph.D. scholarships at the University of Malta, with the aim of advancing cancer research. Each year, the ALIVE Foundation organizes the ALIVE Cycling Challenge, where dedicated cyclists embark on a 1,200-kilometer journey across Europe, with the route changing annually. Our sponsorship played a crucial role in supporting these efforts, contributing to the Foundation’s mission to combat cancer through research.
Responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we felt a strong urge to support those most affected by the crisis. We organized a campaign where we donated 500 shopping bags filled with essential items to individuals and families in need. This initiative was a testament to our commitment to helping our community during challenging times, reinforcing the importance of solidarity and compassion in the face of adversity.
Working with Save and Support Trust Foundation, Soup Kitchens and Other Initiatives
Beyond these major projects, we also sponsored other vital community services, including the Love Kitchen of The Millennium Chapel and the Victory Kitchen, where we serve as the main sponsor.
The Save and Support Trust Foundation has been one of the most recent initiatives where we have seen great impact and have created strong ties. Working with their Chairman Tony Meilak, who leads this project with love and care, endlessly works to fundraise and contributes from his funds to help society. Recently, together with the RE/MAX Malta management, I organised a dinner with RE/MAX agents in aid of the Save and Support Trust Foundation and Millenium Chapel, where we raised over €4000 to assist Fr Hillary’s Love Kitchen. There are a number of initiatives that are in the pipeline, and it’s an exciting time.
Conclusion
Reflecting on my journey into philanthropy, I realize how much this work has enriched my life and the lives of those we have helped. From establishing the RE/MAX and Friends Foundation to supporting diverse charitable projects like the ALIVE Charity Foundation and the Blossom Foundation, I have witnessed the incredible power of collective effort. Taking on the responsibility of leading these initiatives, while challenging, has been deeply rewarding. Philanthropy is not just about financial contributions; it is about dedicating time, energy, and compassion to create lasting change. The projects we have undertaken, from the Rainbow Ward to our COVID-19 response, have not only impacted the lives of those in need but have also fostered a deeper sense of community and purpose within our organization. I am proud of what we have accomplished and look forward to continuing this journey of giving back.
