In an announcement from CEO Bob Pagano, Watts proudly launched the Watts Cares global volunteer program on Earth Day with its inaugural event – a trash cleanup in North Andover/Andover, MA, USA. CEO Bob Pagano and Roberto Vengoechea, SVP, Fluid Solutions and Drains, joined dozens of employees in removing litter from the areas surrounding both buildings during their lunch break. Armed with trash bags and grabbers, and donning neon Watts Cares t-shirts, the sites partnered with local Public Works departments, which later picked up and properly disposed of the trash.
Joanna O'Connell, Co-Chair of the North Andover Sustainability Committee, expressed her excitement about the collaboration with Watts. “We are so pleased that Watts Water reached out to us to see how they could help in the community in honor of Earth Day,” she said. “Their employees helped clean up trash on the streets and many wooded areas around their headquarters on Route 114, and our DPW collected the filled trash bags...a team effort to help the Planet. Thanks Watts!”
For many decades, Watts sites around the world have been actively giving back to their local communities in various ways. The Watts Cares program formalizes these efforts, providing greater visibility among stakeholders and recognizing the company's commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and corporate social responsibility (CSR). This initiative also empowers employees to make a meaningful impact in their communities, fostering a stronger One Watts culture.
The launch of Watts Cares is the result of over a year of meticulous planning, including the training of Watts Cares Ambassadors. These Ambassadors will play a crucial role in collaborating with employees and community groups to organize and execute local philanthropic events.