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Whirlpool Foundation and The Washing Machine Project: A Winning Collaboration

In an inspiring celebration at the 2025 Engage for Good Halo Awards, the Whirlpool Foundation and The Washing Machine Project claimed the prestigious gold award for Best Employee Engagement Initiative. This recognition spotlights their innovative program designed to educate Whirlpool employees about the global disparities in washing practices and, most importantly, to make a meaningful change in underserved communities.

In a world where a staggering sixty percent of the population relies on manual washing methods due to inadequate access to electricity and water, both organizations recognized the urgent need to raise awareness about this divide. The impact of this unpaid labor is particularly profound for women and girls who disproportionately bear the burden of washing clothes by hand. To address this issue, Whirlpool Corporation employees engaged in hands-on experiences dubbed “Washout,” allowing them to immerse themselves in the challenges faced by millions worldwide.

Engaging Employees Through Empathy

Participants in the “Washout” events had the opportunity to hand wash their own clothes, gaining invaluable insight into the struggles that many individuals face daily. These experiences were not merely educational; they were transformative, fostering a deeper understanding and empathy among Whirlpool's workforce.

Moreover, in a hands-on effort to extend their commitment to support these communities, Whirlpool employees assembled manual washing machines designed by The Washing Machine Project. These vital devices have since been distributed to underserved areas in countries such as India, Mexico, the Republic of Congo, and Ghana. Through these initiatives, over 300 Whirlpool employees dedicated their time to manufacture a total of 375 manual washing machines, significantly impacting the lives of those who benefit from them.

A Vision to Empower Women and Girls

Rosa Skinner, the senior manager of global CSR and community relations at Whirlpool, expressed her gratitude for the award and further discussed the program's aspirations. "We are so humbled and grateful to receive this Halo Award. I'd like to thank Whirlpool Foundation for supporting this work and our employees who generously volunteered their time and talents on this initiative. Together, we hope to reclaim time and improve the lives of women and girls worldwide, opening up new opportunities for them," she stated.

Supporting this sentiment, Navjot Sawhney, founder of The Washing Machine Project, emphasized how critical these engagement opportunities are for Whirlpool employees. By understanding the daily challenges of those who rely on handwashing, employees could contribute to alleviating one of the most significant burdens in low-income communities. Sawhney noted that this program significantly impacts their mission to provide life-changing solutions for communities lacking access to modern washing technologies.

The Significance of the Halo Awards

The Halo Awards represent the highest recognition for outstanding corporate and nonprofit partnerships, celebrating initiatives in various categories, including employee engagement and social responsibility. Engage for Good stands as a leader in mobilizing corporate and nonprofit professionals toward creating collaborative partnerships that yield positive societal impacts. Other notable nominees for this year's awards included brands like Mercedes-Benz USA and Edward Jones, underscoring the impressive achievement of Whirlpool and The Washing Machine Project.

About Whirlpool Corporation and The Washing Machine Project

Whirlpool Corporation, listed on the NYSE as WHR, is a leading manufacturer of home appliances, continually pushing to enhance life at home. With its broad brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Maytag, the company reported approximately 17 billion dollars in sales in 2024, illustrating its dominance in the North American market.

On the other hand, The Washing Machine Project is a grassroots initiative based in the U.K. dedicated to reducing the burden of laundry for low-income communities. Their innovative manual washer, the Divya, saves considerable amounts of water and time compared to traditional hand washing methods, empowering individuals to reclaim hours lost to this labor.

In conclusion, the joint effort of Whirlpool Foundation and The Washing Machine Project not only exemplifies corporate social responsibility but also creates a ripple effect of empowerment, giving voice to the underserved and fostering a culture of empathy and action within the Whirlpool community.