Reflecting on the Power of Service: National Volunteer Week 2023

At Samsung Electronics America, we create and collaborate each day with the hopes of contributing to a better world. From making everyday changes that have a meaningful impact on the environment, to unveiling boundary-breaking innovation, to our annual Samsung Gives Day of Service, we are committed to driving positive change in the communities where our people live and work.

April 16-23 is annually recognized as National Volunteer Week – a time to reflect on the power of service in building stronger communities worldwide. To celebrate, we are shining a spotlight on volunteers within our organization who dedicate their time and talents to improve the lives of others.

Kiev volunteering with colleague Ankur Aggarwal and his spouse in Plano, Texas.

Name: Kiev (Ciaban) Peterson

Role at Samsung: Business Analyst, Networks Business

Why I volunteer: As a United States Marine Corps Veteran, I have a personal mission of “continued service,” which drives me to volunteer and become more connected to my community, both in and out of the workplace. Many organizations rely on volunteers, and coming together with other like-minded people allows me to build empathetic bridges with both local and global communities. When I give back to the community I am provided opportunities to tangibly exercise my own core values of honor, courage, commitment, empathy and advocacy.

How I am supporting the community during National Volunteer Week: I joined fellow Samsung colleagues in Plano, TX to clean up local parks, ensuring they are litter-free to improve wildlife habitats and protect local water quality. By connecting with other volunteers, I was not only able to network with others, but also reflect on the importance of why sharing our time for a worthy cause is important.

Yolanda with Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Students from Belleville High School, NJ.

Name: Yolanda Vicente

Role at Samsung: Partner Product & Platform Director, Samsung North America Service Business

Why I volunteer: Simply put, it makes me happy! Volunteering is a rewarding and empowering experience where I receive more than I give. Volunteering allows me to connect with others, to feel inspired and motivated, and to make new connections. Once you find a cause or area that is meaningful to you, where you can contribute, it’s easy to find the time and energy to volunteer.

How I am supporting the community during National Volunteer Week: I am a long-time mentor for Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow STEM competition, and my time supporting Belleville High School in New Jersey started last February. Belleville High School’s Joy Alfano, Chemistry/Environmental Science Teacher and her students are the New Jersey “State Winner.” Over the last few months, I have supported them through the program, offering guidance, challenging solutions, keeping activities on track… and cheering them on! In exchange, I have been inspired by their passion for learning and for helping others and their creativity, project management skills, team play. This week, the Solve for Tomorrow program announced the ten “National Finalist” schools. While Belleville High School did not move forward in the competition, I reached out to Dr. Alfano and the students to celebrate their accomplishments and encourage them to keep innovating.