Celebrating the power of global volunteerism at UPS
At UPS, we are celebrating the power of global volunteerism throughout April and May. Every year, hundreds of thousands of UPSers give the gift of time and service to make their communities safer and more resilient.
Doing our part: We have committed to 30 million volunteer hours by 2030. And this year, we are celebrating a milestone – UPS employees helped The UPS Foundation reach our goal of logging 1 million volunteer hours in support of underserved Black communities. Yes, one M-I-L-L-I-O-N!
Get inspired: Hear from our international community relations employees who work daily with local community members to deliver what matters around the world.
Whilna Stewart-Franklin, community relations manager for Canada, 16 years with UPS
Meet Whilna: 'UPSers are a mighty force. I am always impressed with how we just get things done! UPSers give their all every day, so when UPS supports employee volunteerism through hands-on work or grants, what is really being said is, our people matter.'
'The most important part of my role is educating people on the ‘why’ and the ‘what.’ Why does the work we do matter? And what can we do about it? The ‘what’ can be as easy as pointing people in the direction of organisations they can support financially or providing volunteer activities that help educate participants.'
Whilna’s advice: 'Getting involved can sometimes be intimidating, but every effort, no matter how small, is worthwhile. Giving back does not have to be grand – simple actions can have big impact.'
Nicolo Sgreva, community relations manager for Europe, 2 years with UPS
Meet Nicolò: 'I have the pleasure and responsibility of bringing The UPS Foundation’s mission to life every single day, whether it is working with our non-governmental organisation (NGO) partners to create impactful initiatives for underserved communities or working with the Sustainability Trailblazers on how we can decrease our ecological footprint.'
'Volunteerism has always been an essential part of who I am. After college, I volunteered in a UNHCR Refugee Camp in Mozambique – an experience that changed my life. Experiences like this gave me the chance to put my values into practice. These are the same values I see at UPS.'
Nicolò’s advice: 'Volunteering is the perfect opportunity to give back to communities that are struggling to reach well-being. Reach out to non-profit organisations in your city that are related to a cause that is relevant for you.'
Erika Patricia Vargas, community relations manager for Latin America, 7 years with UPS
Meet Erika: 'I am responsible for closing the gaps in community needs, through strategic philanthropy, community partnerships and volunteerism. I am passionate about religions, cultures, socioeconomic circles and education.'
'The success of any business is linked to the success of the community where it operates. UPS’ commitment to service is the secret ingredient that has allowed us to prosper for more than 115 years.'
Erika’s advice: 'Getting involved with your own community is very easy. There is always an opportunity to give back. Helping others prosper has enriched my life so much!'
Caroline Kiunga, community relations manager in ISMEA, 3 years with UPS
Meet Caroline: 'I am a Kenyan based in Dubai, and I work with NGOs to positively impact communities. It feels like I have been here for many more years because of all the amazing work I have been a part of.'
'While our region is the smallest in UPS numbers, it is the biggest geographically. The socioeconomic needs in India and Africa are massive, but I am proud to be part of a company that is constantly involved in community engagement.'
Caroline’s advice: 'We are all part of a global community and it is crucial to be aware of our communities’ needs. We can all support in many ways, but the gift of time is extremely impactful.'
Did you know: Volunteerism is just one of The UPS Foundation’s four focus areas driving social impact, along with health and humanitarian relief, equity and economic empowerment, and planet protection.
