Philanthropy

Our Commitment

Watertech inspires a culture of teamwork and accountability. We do our best to live our values; holding ourselves, each other, and our institution to a high standard. Our team is committed to improving the quality of life for those in our community and having a positive impact on environmental sustainability. To help achieve our goals we partner with organizations that align with our philanthropic priorities to create a lasting positive impact for those around us.

Community Engagement

Below are some of the groups we partner with to make a difference.

Watertech of America Scholarship in Memory of Eugene Vanden Heuvel

Watertech of America proudly sponsors an annual scholarship in honor of its founder, Eugene Vanden Heuvel. This scholarship supports graduate-level students pursuing studies in Freshwater Sciences, helping develop the next generation of leaders dedicated to protecting and advancing water resources.

By investing in education, Watertech reinforces its commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and the long-term sustainability of clean water systems.

Milwuakee Riverkeeper

Watertech actively participates in the Milwaukee Riverkeeper Adopt-A-River program, demonstrating a hands-on commitment to protecting local waterways. Since adopting Honey Creek in 2018, the team has organized and participated in biannual clean-up efforts each spring and fall.

Trash can enter waterways through stormwater runoff, littering, wind, or illegal dumping—and even small debris can significantly impact aquatic ecosystems. Through consistent volunteer efforts, Watertech helps restore and preserve the health of local rivers, protecting wildlife and improving water quality for the community.

Canned Water 4Kids

Watertech supports global access to clean drinking water through its partnership with CannedWater4Kids (CW4K). The company utilizes CW4K products in its training facility and contributes through ongoing donations.

Proceeds from CW4K initiatives support:

• Drinking Water Projects: Funding sustainable clean water solutions such as well construction and purification systems in underserved regions
• Disaster Relief: Providing emergency drinking water during crises, with over 3 million cans distributed worldwide
• Education & Awareness: Promoting water conservation, recycling, and informed decision-making around safe drinking water

This partnership reflects Watertech’s broader mission to improve water quality not only for its customers, but for communities around the world.

Feeding America

Watertech is committed to strengthening the communities it serves by supporting Feeding America through organized food drives. By engaging employees, partners, and local networks, Watertech helps provide access to nutritious food for individuals and families in need.

In addition to hosting food drives, the Watertech team actively participates in food sorting efforts—helping assemble and pack boxes that are distributed throughout the community to support those facing food insecurity.

This initiative supports Feeding America’s mission to create pathways to stability by ensuring communities have both the resources and support systems necessary to thrive.

Run 4 Water Milwaukee

Watertech proudly sponsors and participates in Run 4 Water Milwaukee, an event that benefits the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee chapter of Engineers Without Borders.

Funds raised through this event directly support infrastructure projects in rural Guatemala, where communities lack access to safe, reliable drinking water. These efforts bring sustainable potable water solutions to those who need them most—improving health, safety, and quality of life.

Wisconsin Parkinson Association (WPA)

Watertech proudly supports the Wisconsin Parkinson Association (WPA), further extending its commitment to community health and well-being. Watertech’s owner, Joe Russell, serves on the WPA Board of Directors, helping guide the organization’s mission to improve the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s disease.

Watertech contributes to WPA’s ongoing impact by supporting marketing initiatives for fundraising efforts, as well as sponsoring events and programs that raise awareness and provide critical resources to individuals and families.

Through this partnership, Watertech demonstrates its dedication to making a meaningful difference—both within the water industry and across the broader community.