American Water Charitable Foundation awards $260,000 to National Urban League
In a powerful display of commitment to workforce equity, the American Water Charitable Foundation announced a $260,000 grant to the National Urban League, directly supporting its Affiliate Movement.
The funding promises to bolster workforce development initiatives that aim to close the equality gap for African Americans and other underserved communities across the U.S. It’s a bold move in a world that often talks about change but rarely invests in it.
“The National Urban League is proud to work with forward-thinking partners like the American Water Charitable Foundation who recognize the value of diversity and inclusion,” said Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League.
This partnership, he emphasized, isn’t just about creating opportunities; it’s about shaping a resilient, inclusive economy that benefits everyone.
The grant will channel resources into key Urban League affiliates, from Chicago to Greater Chattanooga, each playing a critical role in fostering economic empowerment in historically underserved urban communities.
Founded in 1910, the National Urban League has been a cornerstone of civil rights, driving social programs and policies to shrink the equality gap.
Lori Sutton, Chief Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Officer at American Water, underlined the foundation’s dedication to such impactful programs.
“We remain committed to strengthening our inclusion, diversity, equity, and equality principles by supporting organizations such as the Urban League, which helps uplift and empower those they serve,” she said.
Her words underscore the foundation’s ethos of fostering solutions that keep communities thriving.
This grant is part of the foundation’s 2024 Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, which prioritizes water, people, and communities.
Since 2012, the foundation has poured resources into initiatives that align with American Water’s mission of being a responsible neighbor and environmental steward.
A glance at the affiliates benefiting from the grant reveals a nationwide effort, touching communities from Sacramento to Pittsburgh and beyond.
This strategic distribution reflects a vision that’s not just about ticking boxes but driving systemic, scalable change.
In a world hungry for leadership that backs words with action, this collaboration is a reminder that impactful change begins with intentional partnerships.
As Sutton aptly pointed out, preparing future leaders isn’t just a goal—it’s a responsibility.
And with initiatives like these, the future looks a little brighter, a little fairer, and a lot more promising.
For those tracking the evolution of corporate responsibility, this is one to watch.
