Celebrating acts of kindness at IBB Hotels and Cugó Gran Collection
At IBB Hotels and Cugó Gran Collection, we believe in creating a positive impact that goes beyond offering exceptional hospitality. This year, on International Volunteer Day, we reflect on the incredible efforts made by our team to support communities, champion sustainability, and give back to those in need. Here are some heartwarming highlights from 2024:
Community clean-ups: A global effort
In Lublin earlier this year, our team organised a local clean-up to help preserve the city’s beautiful surroundings. Volunteers came together to clear litter, ensuring a cleaner, greener environment for residents and visitors alike.
Most recently, we extended this effort to Malta. In November, the Cugó Gran Macina Malta team participated in a clean-up around Birgu and nearby areas. Their commitment to protecting Malta’s natural beauty is evident in their smiles as they worked together to make a difference.
A heroic effort in Valencia
The devastating floods in Valencia earlier this year called for immediate action, and Erica Catalá, our Head of Marketing and Katharina Beyer, our Head of Operations rose to the challenge. They worked tirelessly to provide aid, ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected. Thanks to their incredible efforts, and the generous support from our GoFundMe initiative, we have been raising funds to be used to purchase much-needed mattresses from a factory in Spain, which are now being delivered to families in need.
Supporting the Soup Kitchen in Valletta
In collaboration with Fr. Marcellino from the Soup Kitchen in Valletta, Malta we donated €475 worth of foodstuffs to support their incredible work. Our Head Chef at The Little Bastion, Johann Costa helped deliver the items, which were c arefully chosen based on the Soup Kitchen’s specific needs. Fr. Marcellino shared his gratitude for the longstanding support from Von der Heyden Group, and we are proud to continue this tradition of giving back.
Earlier this year, as part of World Humanitarian Day, our other hotels joined this effort by donating €500 worth of food and essentials, further underscoring our collective commitment to supporting vulnerable communities.
Volunteering beyond borders: Stories of compassion
Many of our team members also dedicate their personal time to volunteering:
- Dorothée Schmitz, our General Manager at IBB Hotel Ingelheim continues to rescue dogs, providing them with the care and love they need to find new homes. Her dedication has saved countless dogs this year.
- Rhino conservation in South Africa: Anuschka von der Heyden, our Head of Sustainability, travelled to South Africa to volunteer at a rhino orphanage, working with baby rhinos orphaned by the poaching crisis. The experience was as heartbreaking as it was inspiring, emphasising the importance of wildlife conservation.
A commitment to giving back
International Volunteer Day reminds us of the power of collective action and individual kindness. From preserving our local environments to supporting vulnerable communities and protecting wildlife, we are proud of the meaningful work being done by our teams.
To everyone who has contributed their time, energy, and resources to making the world a better place – thank you. Your efforts inspire us all to continue making a difference, one step at a time.
Let’s keep the spirit of volunteering alive throughout the year!