Seminar hosted by the St. Francis de Sales Institute in collaboration with APS Bank
On 14 June 2025, Savio College in Malta hosted a well-attended seminar titled “Volunteering in Malta: Embracing the Changing Times”, organised by the St. Francis de Sales Institute with the support of APS Bank. The event brought together individuals and organisations from across the island—people who are either active volunteers themselves or who rely on voluntary engagement to fulfil their mission.
The seminar opened with a welcome address by Fr. Robert Falzon SDB, Head of the Institute. Keynote speakers Mr Matthew Borg Cuschieri and Mr Glen Grech then offered insights into the evolving trends and current challenges facing the volunteer sector. The morning continued with small-group discussions, where participants explored topics such as volunteer recruitment, retention, motivation, and adaptability. The day concluded with an engaging panel discussion moderated by Dr Stephanie Borg Bugeja, which brought together voices from various sectors to share real-life experiences and strategies.
A strong message emerged throughout the seminar: volunteering in Malta is not in decline—it is evolving. As lifestyles, values, and societal expectations continue to shift, voluntary organisations must stay agile and responsive to these new realities to maintain their impact and relevance.
This adaptability should also be reflected at a national level. While legislative amendments in 2018 and 2020 to Chapter 492 of 2007 have improved opportunities for the establishment and governance of Voluntary Organisations, many still face significant challenges in securing stable funding. As contributors to Malta’s social, economic, and cultural wellbeing, VOs play a vital role in sustaining the country’s community life and identity. Strengthening public support—particularly through accessible and consistent funding mechanisms—will be key to ensuring that VOs can continue delivering long-term value.
The seminar closed with a collective call to action: to embrace change, foster cross-sector collaboration, and continue cultivating a culture of service and active citizenship. The clear takeaway? Volunteering in Malta is changing—and with the right support and mindset, it will continue to thrive.
