The week of April 20, 2025, is National Volunteer Week, a time to recognize the impact of volunteer service in our communities. In honor of this annual celebration, we asked Blue Yonder associates to share their experiences and why volunteering is meaningful to them. Below is a sampling of their responses.

Asim Jena, Project Director (India): I had the opportunity to participate in a volunteer event in Bangalore, where I joined the Akshaya Patra initiative. We visited their community kitchen and helped wash vegetables for the next day’s meals. We also visited a nearby school, where we interacted with the children and served them meals. It was incredibly fulfilling to see the smiles on their faces, despite the various challenges they face. This experience reminded me of how privileged we are and how easily we can forget to give back to society. I’m grateful to be part of Blue Yonder, where we are encouraged to invest our time with community organizations.

Karen McPherson, Senior Executive Assistant (U.S.): While Hurricane Helene devastated our local Florida community, it revealed our resilience and brought residents together to volunteer and support one another. As most of our buildings were destroyed during the hurricane, we now use a tent on the property as our gathering hall and church. I’m proud to be part of a community that gives back and volunteers, especially in times like these. 

Deepak Nadella, Staff Software Engineer (India): What makes Akshaya Patra truly remarkable is its efficient and large-scale kitchen operations, which adhere to high standards of hygiene and food safety. Its centralized and decentralized kitchen models enable the preparation and serving of fresh, well-balanced meals to children in their schools. By providing wholesome food packed with essential nutrients, Akshaya Patra not only supports children’s health but also encourages better school attendance and academic performance.

The organization’s dedication to nourishing young minds and empowering future generations is truly inspiring. Akshaya Patra’s efforts extend beyond merely feeding children — they create a lasting impact by providing them with the energy and opportunity to learn, grow and build a brighter future. I deeply appreciate their mission and highly recommend supporting their cause!

Malavika Prakash, Support Engineer (India): Our India team offers incredible opportunities to contribute to society, and I take great pride in being a part of impactful initiatives such as the Tree Plantation Drive, aligned with the “One Village, One Forest” initiative. 

Kranthi Remala, Product Manager (India): Volunteering is one of the greatest gifts you can offer to the world. Each of us has a reason to care, protect and contribute to the world beyond ourselves and our families. Volunteering does not need to be a large campaign – it can start at home for many of us or be as expansive as creating a revolution across several cities or countries. It is about one’s capacity and calling and ultimately boils down to one thing: touching one soul at a time, leaving an impact through your efforts, doing what must be done silently, and not expecting anything in return.

The time, energy and effort you dedicate to society are the true gifts you can offer, no matter how small, because they contribute to the greater good as a domino effect.

May we all be instruments toward a better society, a healthier world, a sustainable planet, and a warmer humanity during our time on this earth.

Heather Wildman, Senior Solutions Manager (U.K.): I volunteer for the Hearing Dogs for Deaf People in the U.K., where I assist in training and socializing various dogs over an eight-month period to become the ears for individuals who are deaf.

Volunteering has provided me with a new perspective on life. The experience has opened my eyes to the amazing things that animals can do and the deep bonds that can be formed with them. I am able to express love and care for each new furry friend while training them to respond to alarm clocks, doorbells, fire alarms, and cooker alarms, ensuring they become the best companions for those in need of physical and emotional support. Although it is sad to say goodbye to each dog once they have qualified, I am heartened by the impact they will have and confident that they are ready and capable of performing such an important role while creating new memories with their future owners.

Ertan Zanagar, Program Manager (U.S.): Volunteering with the TOPS Empower program enables me to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where children with special needs can experience the joy of soccer, build confidence, and make lasting friendships. Witnessing the impact of this program — not only on the players but also on the dedicated buddies who support them — serves as a powerful reminder of how community, teamwork and kindness can profoundly shape lives both on and off the field.

Blue Yonder offers two Volunteer Time Off days annually, and associates are encouraged to utilize these days to support meaningful causes of their choice.