Microgaming has hailed a staff-led scheme set up under its corporate social responsibility programme PlayItForward after raising £120,000 in donations since inception two years ago.
The initiative provides a dedicated space at Microgaming’s headquarters in the Isle of Man for employees and guests to put forward suggestions and vote for the causes which they would like to see receive support from PlayItForward, now in its sixth year.
John Coleman, CEO of Microgaming, explained: “April 2020 marks two years since Microgaming PlayItForward officially launched a dedicated space for employees to nominate and vote for worthy causes close to their hearts, resulting in more than £120,000 being donated to charity.
“The staff-driven initiative aims to drive employee engagement, encouraging active participation with our CSR programme, and giving us the framework to get directly involved in communities worldwide as we continue to do good and implement positive change.”
Since it officially launched in April 2018, the initiative has attracted over 7,800 votes and more than 55 staff suggestions. In 2019 alone, 12 charitable initiatives were voted for by staff to receive support from PlayItForward.
In addition, over 30 worthy causes were put forward by staff, resulting in over £50,000 in donations, along with guidance, volunteer opportunities and practical support.
Some of the charities that have directly benefited through the initiative within the last year include Isle of Man-based organisations Huntington’s Disease Association, The Children’s Centre, Greenhills Sanctuary IOM, Victim Support Isle of Man, and Marown Bowling Club.
“Microgaming building a website for us will help us reach those families affected by Huntington’s disease who don’t feel they can attend a support group. Huntington’s is a disease that is very hard to talk about if you’re not ready,” added Helen Martin, chairman of Huntington’s Disease Association IOM.
“The information on the site keeps them up to date with what we are doing and how we can help them – it is also great for raising awareness and funds.”
