As part of its ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life in the communities it serves, California Water Service Group (Group) and its subsidiaries donated more than $1,000,000 to local non-profits, community organizations, and other philanthropic entities in 2018, exceeding 2017 contributions by an estimated $200,000.
“In 2018, the deadly Mendocino Complex, Camp, and Woolsey Fires devastated communities in and around our service areas. It was important to us to do everything we could to help those who were affected,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Martin A. Kropelnicki.
The company partnered with the Utility Workers Union of American to raise more than $300,000 for the North Valley Community Foundation, American Red Cross, and North Valley Animal Disaster Group.
Other contributions made in California, Washington, Hawaii, and New Mexico supported charitable organizations making life better by providing food, shelter, and resources to those in need, including the Visalia Emergency Aid Council, Bakersfield Homeless Center, Oroville Rescue Mission, Selma Salvation Army, and Permission to Start Dreaming Foundation. The company also provided $60,000 in college scholarships to 22 local students, including first-generation college students.
The utility’s financial contributions are part of the Group’s philanthropic giving program and do not affect customers’ rates, according to Kropelnicki.
In addition to making financial contributions, the company encourages its employees to volunteer their time. Throughout the utility, employees contributed time and talent to support the Monterey County and Second Harvest Food Banks, Salvation Army, Make-a-Wish Foundation, Toys for Tots, United Way, Dixon Family Services, Boys and Girls Clubs, and American Cancer Society, among many other organizations.
“Making a positive difference for those who live in our service areas is a cornerstone of who we are as both a utility and individuals,” said Kropelnicki. “In both times of tragedy and every day, it’s important to us. I am proud to represent a company that always commits to doing the right thing and to work side-by-side with people who care about giving back.”