American Water Charitable Foundation: Investing in Communities and Workforce Development

The American Water Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization established by American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., has made a significant impact through its Workforce Readiness and STEM Education Grant Programs. By awarding a combined total of $825,000 to 31 organizations across the U.S., the Foundation supports communities served by American Water, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).


The Foundation's investment in workforce readiness and STEM education contributes to the development of a diverse and skilled workforce in the water industry. By supporting initiatives that focus on general career readiness, financial and business literacy, positive youth development, and life skills training, the Foundation helps prepare the next generation of water professionals. This investment in human capital fosters a more inclusive and resilient water industry, promoting the SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

The Foundation's grant program promotes partnerships and collaborations with local organizations, creating a more significant impact on communities. By working with nonprofits, educational institutions, and community-based organizations, the Foundation leverages resources and expertise to address local needs and create lasting change. This collaborative approach aligns with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), fostering a multi-stakeholder approach to sustainable development.


The Foundation measures the success and impact of its grant program through various metrics, including the number of beneficiaries, the percentage of participants who complete training programs, and the percentage of participants who secure employment or pursue further education. By tracking these metrics, the Foundation can inform future investments in ESG and inclusion initiatives, ensuring that its investments have a meaningful and lasting impact on communities.

Grant recipients also track and report progress towards their specific project goals, using metrics such as the number of participants, the percentage of participants who achieve their desired outcomes, and the percentage of participants who report increased confidence in their career development. These metrics help evaluate the long-term sustainability and scalability of the funded initiatives, ensuring that the Foundation's investments continue to make a positive impact on communities.

Community engagement and partnerships play a crucial role in measuring the success of the Workforce Readiness and STEM Education grants. By involving local stakeholders in the evaluation process, the Foundation can gain insights into the needs and priorities of the communities it serves, ensuring that its investments are responsive and effective. This approach aligns with the SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), promoting inclusive and participatory decision-making processes.

In conclusion, the American Water Charitable Foundation's Workforce Readiness and STEM Education Grant Programs demonstrate a strong commitment to investing in communities and fostering a skilled and diverse workforce in the water industry. By aligning with the SDGs and promoting partnerships and collaborations, the Foundation creates a lasting impact on communities and contributes to a more sustainable and inclusive future.