The Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector recently held a meeting with the Hon. Julia Farrugia, Minister for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector. The primary focus of the discussion was to highlight the positive outcomes resulting from various schemes implemented in recent years to support voluntary organisations. The Council emphasised the tangible benefits these initiatives have brought to the sector.

One of the key schemes discussed was the ProACT initiative (PROviders and Communities Together). This programme is designed to bridge the gap between professionals, companies, and voluntary organisations (VOs) by offering specialised support where it is most needed. It enables professionals, students, and firms to contribute service hours as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR), encouraging collaboration and skill-sharing within the voluntary sector. The initiative ultimately aims to strengthen voluntary organisations by connecting their requirements with the expertise available in the wider community.

The meeting also addressed the tax-incentives scheme for companies that donate up to €500 to voluntary organisations operating within specific sectors. This incentive is intended to encourage corporate contributions and further enhance the resources available to voluntary groups. During the discussion, Hon Julia Farrugia expressed her gratitude for the Council’s ongoing efforts and reiterated her commitment to supporting and reinforcing the voluntary sector’s role in Maltese society.

Dr Gertrude Buttigieg, Chairperson of the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector, presented the Minister with a copy of the Electoral Proposals developed by MCVS on behalf of the sector. These proposals were reviewed in light of the existing incentives and benefits, with the aim of further enhancing support for voluntary organisations.