American Water Charitable Foundation Grants Over $450,000 on Giving Tuesday to Support Charities Nationwide

American Water Charitable Foundation’s Impact on Giving Tuesday

On December 10, 2025, the American Water Charitable Foundation (AWCF) made headlines as it announced a remarkable contribution of over $450,000 to charities across the nation. This initiative, celebrated during the annual Giving Tuesday, underscores the foundation’s commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.

Established as a philanthropic arm of American Water, one of the largest regulated water utility companies in the United States, the AWCF has taken significant strides since its inception to support various charitable causes. This year, in a bid to encourage employee participation and strengthen community ties, the foundation allocated funds in two potent ways: through direct donations and employee rewards.

To ignite the spirit of giving, every employee was credited with $100 in their Giving Rewards Account. This initiative empowered over 4,500 employees to recommend eligible charities of personal significance, leading to donations benefiting a staggering 2,100 organizations across the country. Rachael Horvath, a Senior GIS Specialist with Pennsylvania American Water, expressed her gratitude, highlighting how this initiative not only bolstered community assistance but also resonated personally with the employees contributing.

Horvath spotlighted the Scranton Ronald McDonald House, drawing from her own experiences to illustrate the vital role such organizations play. Her backstory accentuates the dual objective of the initiative: to support charities while also reinforcing the familial bonds within the community, especially in times of need. “While my own daughter was in the NICU, I met several families who were staying at the House while their newborns received care,” she shared, underlining the intertwined nature of community support and personal experiences.

The foundation's contributions aren’t new; since its establishment in 2012, the AWCF has directed over $20 million in grants and matching gifts, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families within its service areas. Carrie Williams, the President of the American Water Charitable Foundation, emphasized the collective power of such charitable acts. “Giving Tuesday is a powerful reminder of the impact we can make together,” she remarked, reinforcing the philosophy that collaborative efforts can lead to amplified positive changes.

Moreover, AWCF's focus revolves around three core pillars: Water, People, and Communities. This framework not only reflects their operational ethos but also outlines their strategic direction, ensuring that any funding provided resonates with their mission of fostering flourishing communities.

American Water, with its legacy dating back to 1886, has a profound impact, serving over 14 million individuals with essential water and wastewater services across 14 states and various military installations. The structure of the company highlights the seamless integration of utility management and community investment, allowing them to achieve their overarching goal of maintaining safe and reliable water services.

As the AWCF emphasizes charitable giving, it positions itself as a beacon of hope and assistance for those in dire circumstances. By exemplifying corporate social responsibility, AWCF is setting a standard for how utility companies not only provide essential services but also support the communities they serve.

The impacts arise from the philanthropic initiatives that are vital in these challenging times, reminding us that, despite the hurdles we face, collective actions can cultivate significant change.

For more information about the American Water Charitable Foundation and its initiatives, visit their official website and explore the opportunities to get involved in making a difference within your community.