American Water Charitable Foundation Invests in Camden Community with $200,000 in Grants

Supporting Camden's Community Through Generosity

On December 18, 2025, the American Water Charitable Foundation announced a generous allocation of $200,000 in grants under the One Water Street Grant Program. This initiative aims to bolster various non-profit organizations situated in Camden, New Jersey—a community deeply valued by the foundation due to its significance as the home of American Water's headquarters.

The foundation, a philanthropic arm of the largest regulated water and wastewater utility in the U.S., American Water, has always been deeply ingrained in the communities it serves. The latest round of funding supports 20 non-profit organizations, robustly enhancing their ability to deliver vital services to the Camden community. Notably, the Center for Aquatic Sciences expressed immense gratitude for the continuous support it has received from the Foundation. According to Barbara Kelly, President and CEO of the Center, in 2025 alone, the foundation contributed $200,000, adding to a remarkable total of $280,000 awarded over the past seven years for their Community and Urban Science Enrichment (CAUSE) program.

The CAUSE program is pivotal in engaging youth within Camden through free summer science camps and on-water educational activities aimed at equipping students with a robust understanding of the environment. This investment not only enriches the lives of the teens involved but simultaneously plants the seeds for future environmental stewardship within the community.

Carrie Williams, the President of the American Water Charitable Foundation, emphasized the Foundation's commitment to making impactful contributions tailored to the needs of Camden. She stated, "Together with Camden partners, we're expanding educational opportunities and creating a lasting impact for families today and generations to come."

The One Water Street Grant is part of a broader initiative known as the Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, which is structured around three essential pillars: Water, People, and Communities. By focusing on high-impact projects, the foundation aims to provide sustainable benefits to the residents of Camden.

Since its inception in 2012, the American Water Charitable Foundation has been on a mission to support communities through substantial financial contributions. To date, they have invested over $20 million through various charitable grants and matching gifts, all funded through shareholder contributions without affecting customer rates. This year also saw the release of their 2024 Camden Community Investment Report, reaffirming their commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen by contributing over $8 million in various charitable efforts since 2018.

The devotion of the American Water Charitable Foundation is commendable, especially as they strive to foster community resilience through education and capacity building. This systemic approach ensures that Camden will not only improve in the immediate term but set the groundwork for future generations. Through partnerships and community engagement, they illustrate how corporate organizations can positively influence local communities while promoting sustainability and environmental education.

In conclusion, the American Water Charitable Foundation serves as a beacon of hope for Camden’s future, showcasing the significant impact of corporate philanthropy rooted in community needs. Their ongoing commitment is instrumental in fostering positive change, ultimately creating a thriving environment for all age groups in Camden.

For more information about the grant recipients, the American Water Charitable Foundation, and details on the 2025 Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, visit their official website.