Worldwide access to clean water is crucial. On AEO’s journey to build a better world, we’re proud that our associates have been longtime supporters of The Water Project – a nonprofit helping communities in sub-Saharan Africa gain access to clean, safe water.
Since 2016, AEO’s Production and Sourcing teams have committed to an annual giving campaign – in partnership with fellow associates, family, friends, and vendors -to help make clean water, hygiene and sanitation education available in Kenya. In total, the team has raised more than $213,000 for The Water Project in seven schools and nine communities. Using a variety of water solutions such as wells, rainwater harvesting, and protected natural springs, together the AEO community has made clean water possible for 7,561 people.
“What began as a small idea in 2016 to support those in need of clean drinking water has become an annual giving campaign for AEO associates at our New York Office and for our vendor partners,” said Sindi Rusiecki, Vice President – Production, AEO Inc. “Our teams have participated in many fundraising events, from bake sales to happy hours, in support of this worthy cause. It has been an eye-opening experience, to understand the difficulties these communities have accessing water and to realize the profound, life-changing impact we make together with every project we sponsor.”
As we aim to expand our work with suppliers around the world to take care of freshwater resources, we’re thrilled that a local Pakistan NGO – identified with the assistance of The Water Project – will implement clean water projects in 20 rural villages with the $59,000 raised through our 2022 campaign. These projects will provide improved access to drinking water, sanitation training, and education regarding personal and domestic hygiene through the installation of shallow wells with twin water hand pumps and the provision of bar soap to 400 families.
Our associates share AEO’s passion for giving back and we’re proud of our people and vendor partners for making a REAL and lasting impact in communities throughout the world.
Learn more about The Water Project here.
