News & Community

Building strong communities is hard work and one of the most important things we do. We're dedicated to helping our communities be more vibrant places to live, work, and play, and hope to earn their support by being involved and concerned corporate citizens.

Our community involvement draws on the unique talents of our employees as well as the resources of our business. Through community giving, in-kind donations, partnerships and volunteering, we demonstrate our commitment to programs that address community-specific needs.

As a company, we work with a number of community-based partners throughout our service areas to positively impact the overall quality of life where our employees and neighbors live and work. It takes more than a one-time grant or volunteer effort to make a lasting difference, so we seek out and support organizations that understand how to best meet the needs of the community.

Download the latest Illinois American Water Community Impact Report.

Hydration Station Grant Program:

In partnership with the American Water Charitable Foundation. Illinois American Water offers grants to support accessible drinking water. In 2025, $40,400 in grants was awarded to 12 eligible public charities and school districts, to fund bottle filling stations. Learn more about our 2025 Hydration Station Grant Recipients.

Water & Environment Grant Program:

In partnership with the American Water Charitable Foundation. Illinois American Water offers grants in support of community-based projects that improve, restore and protect our source water and surrounding watersheds. Learn more about our 2025 Water & Environment Grant Recipients.

Firefighter Grant Program:

Illinois American Water is proud to partner with and support our local firefighters and emergency responders. Thank you for your hard work, dedication and invaluable service to provides fire protection. To show our appreciation, Illinois American Water created the Firefighter Grant Program to benefit local fire departments. Grants of up to $1,000 are provided to fire and emergency organizations within our service area to assist them with purchasing emergency equipment and training materials. Learn More About Illinois American Water Firefighter Grant Program.

Water Keeps Life Flowing Art Contest:

The contest is open to third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students in schools served by Illinois American Water, as well as to students who live in the company’s service area. We encourage students to tap into their creativity to express how safe, clean, and reliable water is critical to their daily life. Learn More About Illinois American Water Water Keeps Life Flowing Art Contest.

Community Donations:

We offer general charitable contributions for community events, activities and organizations that focus on water and the environment, water and healthy living, environmental education, and community sustainability. Contact Illinois American Water To Learn More About Our Community Donations.