Arrow’s 12,000 employees worldwide generously donate thousands of hours of community service to nonprofit organizations each year, sometimes through company-sponsored events, but more often as individuals. From helping to feed the hungry to mentoring children in the community, the causes that employees care about and contribute to with volunteer service are vast.

In recognition of National Volunteer Week (April 15-21), here are three Arrow employees from around the globe who are making a difference in their local communities.

Coaching in Norway

Bill Clinton, marketing communications coordinator, Arrow Northern Europe, in Nedre Vats, Norway, volunteers 10 hours per week as a children’s basketball coach. He serves as the head coach of a competitive regional basketball team, as well as at a local club in his community where he trains more than 60 children ages 5-19. “I have gotten so much out of basketball, I feel that it has made me the person I am today,” says Bill, who has been playing the game since the age of seven. “I am a big believer that you should always give back what you have received from something.” He added, “I see that it helps the children in so many ways. It allows them to meet new people, make friends, gain self-confidence, learn new skills, be active, and most importantly, learn to be good sports.”

 

Healing in India

Arrow India’s Malini Kalyanam, manager, Human Resources, in Bangalore, India, uses Reiki, an Asian technique for stress reduction and relaxation, to promote healing for individuals in need. And as a Reiki Grandmaster, Malini’s Reiki practice extends beyond the treatment of humans to animals at the zoo. “Many of the animals we visit have been hurt doing circus shows,” says Malini. “I often bring children along to help them lose their fear of animals and appreciate the art of healing.”

 

Animal Rescue in Minnesota

Stephanie Bode, account specialist, Arrow Advantage, in Eden Prairie, Minn., volunteers for Southwest Metro Animal Rescue and Adoption Society, a nonprofit organization committed to the rescue of abandoned, abused and stray domestic animals in Minnesota. She helps the organization plan for its many fundraising activities throughout the year and find new homes for abandoned pets. “I feel sorry for so many animals that are mistreated,” says Stephanie. “I have two dogs who I love dearly, one of which I recently adopted from Southwest Metro Animal Rescue. I would love to adopt all of the needy animals out there, but I know that is not realistic, so by helping the organization I am still able to make a difference.”