Our Stories
American Water employees across the country came together to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by turning a company holiday into a “day on” — an opportunity to serve their communities through meaningful volunteer projects — demonstrating compassion, teamwork, and a shared commitment to uplift others.
Community Clean Up – Camden, NJ
American Water volunteers, including New Jersey American Water President Mark McDonough, joined county and city leaders, law enforcement, and Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill for a community cleanup in Camden’s Fairview neighborhood. This collaborative effort of shoveling snow and salting sidewalks demonstrated a shared commitment to improving the city.
Sharia's Closet - San Diego Imperial Beach, CA
In California, employees supported Sharia’s Closet, a nonprofit that provides free clothing to families and individuals facing homelessness, addiction, unemployment, domestic violence, and financial hardship. The team helped sort donations and package customized clothing orders, ensuring that clients received items tailored to their needs.
West Suburban Community Pantry - Woodridge, IL
Volunteers in Illinois braved frigid temperatures to support the West Suburban Community Pantry (WSCP), which provides nourishing food and resources to help families thrive. Serving more than 1,000 families weekly, WSCP is essential in combating food insecurity in DuPage and Will counties. American Water employees assisted the pantry’s food distribution efforts.
Waterfront Mission - Pensacola, FL
Employees in Pensacola partnered with Waterfront Mission, an organization focused on supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Volunteers collected essential cold weather items, including jackets, blankets, and socks, and served roughly 200 warm meals to community members in need. Their efforts helped provide comfort to residents for the winter season.
Sound the Alarm Event – Asbury Park, NJ
In Asbury Park, American Water employees joined the American Red Cross for the 3rd Annual Sound the Alarm event, focused on home fire safety and emergency preparedness. Volunteers worked alongside local fire officials to install smoke alarms, provide safety education, and distribute preparedness materials. Their collective efforts made 90 homes safer, reached 241 residents, and mobilized over 100 volunteers. A special thank you to Fire Official Tee Gates and Chief Kevin Keddy for their outstanding leadership and coordination. The Asbury Park Fire Department, recently recognized as the American Red Cross of Central New Jersey's Outstanding Partner of the Year for 2025, continues to exemplify what true partnership looks like.
Blanket & Cozy Sock Drive – Godfrey, IL
In Godfrey, employees from the Illinois Central Division collected 16 blankets and 46 pairs of cozy socks for residents of the Bria of Godfrey Nursing Facility.
Coat Drive for A Hand to Hold Organization – Camden, NJ
In Camden, the team donated 74 coats to A Hand to Hold, an organization devoted to empowering underprivileged youth. Through education, mentorship, and essential resources, the organization helps young people overcome challenges. The coat donation supported local youth and families as they faced harsh winter conditions.
The 2026 MLK Day of Service activities were supported by American Water’s Together We Stand Employee Business Resource Group, highlighting the company’s dedication to advancing Dr. King’s vision by supporting ongoing community service projects.