American Water Charitable Foundation Awards $50,000 in Workforce Readiness and STEM Education Grants in Maryland

Maryland American Water partners with five nonprofit organizations to support career readiness, STEM education and workforce development programs

BEL AIR, Md., Sept. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Water Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organization established by American Water (NYSE: AWK), the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., recently announced five organizations supporting communities served by Maryland American Water received Workforce Readiness and STEM Education grants.

"We are grateful for the continued support from the American Water Charitable Foundation," stated Phil Hosmer, Executive Director, Nature Worx. "This grant will allow Nature Worx to reach hundreds of young people across Central Maryland with hands-on environmental education. By inspiring the next generation to become thoughtful stewards of our natural world, this partnership helps ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for our communities."

"Investing in education and workforce development aligns with the values of American Water" noted Laura Runkle, President, Maryland American Water. "A well-prepared workforce not only opens doors for individuals but also strengthens the communities they live in," she continued. "When students and young adults have access to quality STEM education and career readiness programs, they gain the skills and confidence needed to pursue meaningful careers and contribute to the local economy."

The Workforce Readiness and STEM Education grants are part of the American Water Charitable Foundation's Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, focusing on three pillars of giving: Water, People and Communities. These grant programs support general career readiness, financial and business literacy, positive youth development, STEM education and access to high-quality learning.

This year's Maryland's Workforce Readiness and STEM Education grantees include:

• Nature Worx Inc.
• REACT (Robotics and Engineering in Allegany County—Together, Inc.)
• Evergreen Heritage Center
• Public Library Association of Annapolis
• Harford County Public Library Foundation

"The American Water Charitable Foundation is proud to partner with organizations across Maryland that are helping prepare students and young adults for future success," said Carrie Williams, President, American Water Charitable Foundation. "Through these grants, we are investing in programs that expand access to education, career exploration and workforce readiness opportunities."

Learn more about Maryland American Water's community impact here.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 19 military installations. American Water's approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company's national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About American Water Charitable Foundation
The American Water Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organization established by American Water, focuses on three pillars of giving: Water, People, and Communities. Since 2012, the Foundation has invested over $25 million in funding through grants and matching gifts to support eligible organizations in communities served by American Water. The Foundation is funded by American Water shareholders and has no impact on customer rates. For more information, visit amwater.com/awcf. 

About Maryland American Water
Maryland American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, provides safe, clean, reliable and affordable water services to approximately 32,000 people. For more information, visit www.amwater.com/mdaw/ and join Maryland American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

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SOURCE American Water