Deriv Malta’s CSR programme is changing lives

February 13, 2024

People

This article was updated on

September 24, 2024

Volunteers from Deriv participating in the Malta CSR programme

What does it mean to be a socially responsible company? For us at Deriv, it means more than just writing a cheque. It means getting involved, getting inspired, and getting to know the people we are helping. That’s why, this year, Deriv Malta started a six-month CSR programme with Puttinu Cares, a leading Maltese NGO that supports children with cancer and their families.

Deriv volunteers at a charity shop in Qawra, Malta — Deriv volunteers at Puttinu Cares charity shop in Qawra, Malta

The first step in a six-month CSR journey

The first phase of Deriv Malta’s CSR journey was a hands-on experience at Puttinu Cares’ charity shops. The team swapped their desks for shelves, sorting through donations, arranging items, and serving customers. This gave them a chance to help with some of the fund raising operations of the NGO.

Deriv volunteers also got to interact with Puttinu Cares staff, who shared their stories and passion for the cause. This created a bond between the two organisations and a deeper appreciation for the work they do.

A Deriv volunteer in Puttinu Cares charity shop in Gzira, Malta — A Deriv volunteer organising clothes in Puttinu Cares charity shop in Gzira, Malta

Malta CSR carnival brings fun and smiles

Deriv Malta threw a delightful Carnival Party on 12 February for 80 children and their loved ones. The event was a vibrant celebration filled with laughter and joy, providing the children with a much-needed opportunity to relax and simply have fun. The carnival featured a variety of activities, including a bouncy castle, playhouses, building blocks, and a ball pit, all designed to spark creativity and excitement. The decorations incorporated the popular Wonka theme, transporting the children to a world of imagination and magical possibilities. The children were treated to a captivating magic show, balloon art, lively dancing, and a fun photo booth, creating lasting memories.

Deriv volunteers at the carnival party for the Malta CSR project — Deriv volunteers after setting up the decorations and games for the cancer children's Carnival Party in Malta

More than just a CSR project for Deriv

The genuine smiles on the children's faces and the heartfelt appreciation from their families served as a powerful testament to the impact of our efforts. This experience underscored the importance of community and the positive influence even small gestures can have on those facing challenging circumstances.

Deriv Malta’s CSR journey with Puttinu Cares is a 6-month commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children with cancer and their families. The success of the first two months inspires the team, and they look forward to continuing their collaboration with Puttinu Cares in the coming months.

Decorations for the Carnival, organised by Deriv — Deriv prepared a night of magical fun for Puttinu Cares’ children and families in Malta.

Going beyond corporate social responsibility

In March, Deriv Malta stepped up their game, donating six smart TVs to Puttinu Cares’ accommodations for children with cancer undergoing treatment away from home, smashing their initial target of 5! These TVs offer children the chance to dive into the world of their favourite cartoons, access a wide array of music on YouTube, immerse themselves in exciting games, and learn through interactive programmes. It’s a simple yet profound way to bring joy and a sense of normalcy to their days, making their time at Puttinu Cares a bit brighter and more comfortable.

But the wave of community spirit didn’t stop there. An emotionally resonant, employee-driven initiative took place within the Malta office, showcasing the team’s strong sense of unity and compassion. A mother whose son is undergoing treatment for leukaemia was organising a Healthy Wrap Day to raise funds for Puttinu Cares. The Malta office came together to order these wraps, not only as a supportive gesture for the mother and the NGO but also as a meaningful contribution to the well-being of the children and their caregivers.

Deriv employees at the Malta office — Healthy Wrap Day at the Deriv Malta office

Deriv Malta’s car wash fundraiser

Deriv Malta’s CSR initiative started with a splash in May. The Deriv team organised a spirited car wash event, with 4 Deriv volunteers partnered with a local petrol station, which graciously provided the team with a spot to wash the cars and necessary materials. The team washed approximately 20 cars, with some generous customers donating more than the requested amount. The event raised 190 euros in cash donations, with Deriv topping it up with an additional 500 euros. This brought the total to 690 euros, all donated to Puttinu Cares. It was a day filled with teamwork, suds, and the satisfaction of making a difference.

2 Deriv volunteers washing a customer’s car in the petrol station to raise funds for CSR. — 2 Deriv volunteers washing a customer’s car in the petrol station.

Corporate and team collaboration for Puttinu Cares

In June, Deriv Malta’s CSR efforts focused on bringing smiles to children receiving treatment through Puttinu Cares. The team carefully selected toys and gifts tailored to the specific needs of newborns, toddlers, and older children, including crafts, games, Legos, and dolls. The heartfelt experience of personally delivering these presents to the hospital reinforced the team’s dedication to making a tangible difference in the community. The initiative was made possible through a combination of corporate funding and the team’s personal contributions, allowing them to bring joy to children facing challenging times. The ongoing CSR activities continue to remind Deriv that even small gestures can create meaningful changes.

Two Deriv employees and toy store representatives with toys purchased for Puttinu Cares children. — Two Deriv employees and representatives from the toy store, along with the toys purchased for the Puttinu Cares children.

Closing with a key of hope: The end of the Malta CSR project

The Malta CSR programme finished in July with Deriv’s participation in the Puttinu Cares’ "Sponsor a Room" initiative. This special project invites companies to help build apartments for families who must travel far from home for their children's medical care, offering a safe and welcoming space for them during incredibly tough times.

We sponsored the construction of a bedroom in a London apartment, where young cancer patients and their families can stay cost-free while undergoing treatment at local centres.

Although the Malta initiative has concluded, the positive outcomes of this project will continue to benefit cancer patients for a long time. The newly built bedroom in the London apartment offers a lifeline for families navigating the challenges of cancer treatment. It provides a haven of comfort and support, allowing families to focus on their loved ones' well-being without the added burden of financial strain.

Deriv is proud to have played a part in this impactful project, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that sustainably improve the lives of those in need. This commitment reflects our belief in the power of corporate social responsibility and its potential to create lasting change.

Join us in this journey

We invite you to follow Deriv Life for the latest updates on this amazing CSR journey. Every month, we will share a new chapter of this story, showcasing the impact of Deriv Malta’s CSR programme and the stories of the people they help. You can also join us in supporting Puttinu Cares by visiting their website, donating, or volunteering. Together, we can make a difference.

Deriv is proud to be recognised as a Great Place to Work™ and certified Platinum in
Investors in People.