MWRD earns Gold-Level recognition from the American Water Works Association’s Water Ambassador Program

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago's (MWRD's) commitment to public engagement has landed its Office of Public Affairs a Gold Level designation from the Illinois Section of the American Water Works Association's (ISAWWA) Water Ambassador Program. This is the highest honor granted through the initiative.

The Water Ambassador Program highlights organizations that go above and beyond in promoting water stewardship, and the Gold Level designation recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to water education, community engagement, and public outreach.

"This recognition reflects the dedication of our Public Affairs team and their passion for connecting communities to the essential work of water reclamation and environmental stewardship," said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. "We are proud to receive this honor and remain committed to empowering the public with knowledge about our water resources."

This recognition reflects the MWRD's efforts in delivering robust educational programming to schools, community groups, and civic organizations; offering public tours, open houses, and hands-on learning opportunities; developing accessible, multilingual outreach materials; supporting statewide water-awareness campaigns and professional development initiatives; and demonstrating leadership in public communications focused on water quality, infrastructure and environmental protection.

"This honor underscores the MWRD's leadership in public engagement and education," said Commissioner Beth McElroy-Kirkwood, chair of the MWRD's Public Information and Education Committee. "Our Public Affairs team continues to set the standard for connecting communities to the vital work of protecting our water."

In 2025, the MWRD engaged with nearly 400,000 people at tours of MWRD water reclamation plants, at community events and presentations throughout Cook County.  The MWRD commissioners and staff are out nearly every day in the community presenting in schools, participating in health fairs, environmental workshops, professional conferences and farmers markets, participating in local parades and events to spread awareness for water stewardship, flood mitigation and protection for infrastructure and the environment.

In May, the MWRD will host three open houses at its O'Brien, Stickney and Calumet water reclamation plants on May 2, 16 and 30, respectively, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. To learn more and plan a visit or engage with the MWRD at external events, visit mwrd.org/events.