Month: April 2026

Simple Ways to Make Earth Day Every Day

BELLEVILLE, Ill., April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In recognition of Earth Day, Illinois American Water is highlighting its ongoing commitment to protecting local water resources through environmental stewardship, strategic infrastructure investment and community engagement.

Serving approximately 1.3 million people across Illinois, Illinois American Water works year-round to protect water at its source while delivering safe, reliable service to homes and businesses across the state. From investing in renewable energy and environmentally responsible operations to partnering with educators, farmers and community organizations, the company’s efforts are focused on helping ensure clean water today and for future generations.

“Protecting water starts long before it reaches the tap,” said Rebecca Losli, President of Illinois American Water. “Our employees are committed every day to strengthening infrastructure, safeguarding local waterways and supporting the communities we serve.”

As part of its commitment to sustainable operations, Illinois American Water has invested in renewable energy projects that reduce environmental impact. The solar installations located at its Bradley Water Treatment Plant in Champaign and San Koty Water Treatment Plant in Peoria – with a combined total of over 12,000 solar panels – are projected to offset greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to removing nearly 25,000 cars from the road or conserving more than 13 million gallons of gasoline over 15 years.

In celebration of Earth Day 2026, supporting the theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” Illinois American Water employees across the state are also participating in environmental, educational and industry initiatives that reinforce sustainable practices and water source protection.

Earlier this week, company employees in Peoria partnered with the Sun Foundation’s Clean Water Celebration to teach middle school students how source water is treated to make potable drinking water. Understanding the journey of water from source to treatment to tap is a complex process that requires many steps to help ensure water safety and quality.

The company’s Pontiac Water Treatment Plant recently served as a tour stop for the Farmer-Led Advances in Soil Health “From Tile to Tap” field day. The event highlighted how responsible land management and conservation practices can help protect drinking water sources downstream. Beyond education and outreach Illinois American Water has partnered with farmers to beneficially reuse water treatment residuals and wastewater treatment biosolids rather than sending them to landfills. Since 2016, thousands of tons of these materials have been applied to agricultural fields under strict guidelines designed to protect water quality and support soil health. 

These efforts reflect the company’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship and watershed protection in the communities it serves.

Illinois American Water encourages customers to take simple steps at home to help conserve water and protect our vital resource, including fixing leaks, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, running full loads of laundry and dishes, and properly disposing of household items like batteries, paint and unused medications. Illinois American Water reminds customers that Saturday, April 25, is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, organized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Unneeded medications can be safely disposed of at official drop-off locations across the state from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, which prevents improper disposal that can negatively impact waterways. Find local drop-off locations and more information at dea.gov/takebackday.

Losli continued, “Small actions can make a big difference. When utilities, communities and customers work together to protect water resources, we help ensure clean and reliable water for future generations.”

For more Earth Day information and resources, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Earth Day website: epa.gov/earthday.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About Illinois American Water
Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state with approximately 600 dedicated employees working to provide safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/illinois-american-water-celebrates-earth-day-with-a-focus-on-sustainable-operations–water-source-protection-302749423.html

SOURCE American Water

COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Nationwide today announced that, together with Haslam Sports Group and the Edwards family, it has been awarded a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) franchise in Columbus, officially securing a new professional women’s soccer club for Central Ohio. The announcement comes during Nationwide’s 100th anniversary year, marking a milestone moment for both the company and Columbus.

“Nationwide was born in Columbus, and we’ve grown up together over the last 100 years,” said Kirt Walker, Nationwide chief executive officer. “As we prepared to celebrate our centennial, we knew we wanted to do something big to give back to the city that has given us so much. Supporting a new professional women’s sports franchise in Central Ohio was a unique opportunity we just had to embrace.”

The new club is expected to begin play in the 2028 NWSL season at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Columbus’ Arena District, sharing a world-class, soccer-specific stadium and fan experience with the Columbus Crew. The project includes a new, women-specific training facility and stadium enhancements including new locker rooms designed for and used by NWSL teams.

“When young athletes in Central Ohio can see women competing at the highest level in their own backyard and see the investment, facilities and visibility match what they see in the men’s game, it sends a powerful message about what’s possible. We’re proud to stand alongside Haslam Sports Group and the Edwards family to help make that a reality in Columbus,” Walker added.

Nationwide has been the exclusive insurance partner of the NWSL since 2021. Through the league partnership, Nationwide and the NWSL have:

• Established the Lauren Holiday Impact Award in 2024, recognizing the active NWSL player who exemplifies exceptional service, leadership and character in their community.
• Created Experience Nationwide, a paid, immersive and hands-on learning program that provides NWSL players with professional development and business experience to help prepare for careers beyond the pitch.
• Expanded local club relationships so that Nationwide now partners with most NWSL teams, deepening ties in local communities and with fans across the country.

Columbus has emerged as a national hub for women’s sports, hosting marquee events and driving significant sports-related economic activity for the region. The addition of an NWSL club will build on that momentum, generating new economic activity and providing another pathway for girls and young women inspired by the global growth of soccer.

“This club is also a celebration of the Columbus Way – public and private partners, businesses and civic leaders and passionate fans all coming together to do something big for our community,” Walker said. “We are grateful to the leaders across the city, county and region whose support helped make this possible. Together, we’re not just adding another team, we’re strengthening the foundation for economic growth and opportunity in Central Ohio.”

Nationwide’s mutual structure allows the company to take a long-term view and invest beyond its core businesses, especially in the communities it calls home. The new club is expected to bring more visitors downtown, support local businesses, create opportunities for neighbors and associates, and help keep the Arena District vibrant year-round. It represents another way Nationwide delivers value for its members while continuing to serve as a long-term community builder in Columbus.

The new NWSL club adds to a broader portfolio of sports relationships for Nationwide that includes sponsorships in the NFL, NWSL, MLS, PGA TOUR and NHL. 

About Nationwide
Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified financial services and insurance organizations in the United States. Nationwide is rated A+ by Standard & Poor’s. An industry leader in driving customer-focused innovation, Nationwide provides a full range of insurance and financial services products including auto, business, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; and pet, motorcycle and boat insurance.

For more information about Nationwide and Nationwide’s ratings, visit www.nationwide.com or Company Ratings — Nationwide.

Subscribe today to receive the latest news from Nationwide. Nationwide, Nationwide is on your side and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2026

Contact:
Emily Buzzard
(614) 249-6349
news@nationwide.com

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SOURCE Nationwide

Simple Ways to Make Earth Day Every Day

SAN DIEGO, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In recognition of Earth Day, California American Water is highlighting the importance of protecting local water resources through environmental stewardship, strategic infrastructure investment and community engagement.

Serving approximately 720,000 people across California, the company works year-round to protect water at its source while delivering safe, reliable service to homes and businesses across California.

“Protecting water starts long before it reaches the tap,” said Sarah Leeper, President of California American Water. “Our employees are committed every day to strengthening infrastructure, safeguarding local water resources and supporting the communities we serve.”

California American also encourages customers to take simple steps at home that help conserve water and protect this vital resource, including fixing leaks, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, running full loads of laundry and dishes and properly disposing of household items like batteries, paint and unused medications.

For more Earth Day information and resources, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Earth Day website: epa.gov/earthday.

This Saturday, April 25, is also National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, organized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Unneeded medications can be safely disposed of at official drop-off locations across California from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Find local drop-off locations and more information at dea.gov/takebackday.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About California American Water 
California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water with approximately 300 dedicated employees, provides safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 720,000 people.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-american-water-celebrates-earth-day-with-water-saving-tips-302749327.html

SOURCE American Water

Simple Ways to Make Earth Day Every Day

SAN DIEGO, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In recognition of Earth Day, California American Water is highlighting the importance of protecting local water resources through environmental stewardship, strategic infrastructure investment and community engagement.

Serving approximately 720,000 people across California, the company works year-round to protect water at its source while delivering safe, reliable service to homes and businesses across California.

“Protecting water starts long before it reaches the tap,” said Sarah Leeper, President of California American Water. “Our employees are committed every day to strengthening infrastructure, safeguarding local water resources and supporting the communities we serve.”

California American also encourages customers to take simple steps at home that help conserve water and protect this vital resource, including fixing leaks, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, running full loads of laundry and dishes and properly disposing of household items like batteries, paint and unused medications.

For more Earth Day information and resources, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Earth Day website: epa.gov/earthday.

This Saturday, April 25, is also National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, organized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Unneeded medications can be safely disposed of at official drop-off locations across California from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Find local drop-off locations and more information at dea.gov/takebackday.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About California American Water 
California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water with approximately 300 dedicated employees, provides safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 720,000 people.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-american-water-celebrates-earth-day-with-water-saving-tips-302749327.html

SOURCE American Water

Simple Ways to Make Earth Day Every Day

SAN DIEGO, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In recognition of Earth Day, California American Water is highlighting the importance of protecting local water resources through environmental stewardship, strategic infrastructure investment and community engagement.

Serving approximately 720,000 people across California, the company works year-round to protect water at its source while delivering safe, reliable service to homes and businesses across California.

“Protecting water starts long before it reaches the tap,” said Sarah Leeper, President of California American Water. “Our employees are committed every day to strengthening infrastructure, safeguarding local water resources and supporting the communities we serve.”

California American also encourages customers to take simple steps at home that help conserve water and protect this vital resource, including fixing leaks, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, running full loads of laundry and dishes and properly disposing of household items like batteries, paint and unused medications.

For more Earth Day information and resources, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Earth Day website: epa.gov/earthday.

This Saturday, April 25, is also National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, organized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Unneeded medications can be safely disposed of at official drop-off locations across California from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Find local drop-off locations and more information at dea.gov/takebackday.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About California American Water 
California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water with approximately 300 dedicated employees, provides safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 720,000 people.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-american-water-celebrates-earth-day-with-water-saving-tips-302749327.html

SOURCE American Water

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On Earth Day, the Great Mother March will arrive on the National Mall, completing a 32-day walking pilgrimage from Asheville, North Carolina. The gathering stands as the only Earth Day event taking place on the National Mall this year, offering a distinct and meaningful moment of connection, reflection, and collective intention.

At a time when the landscape of environmental advocacy is evolving, the Great Mother March brings a renewed expression of care for Mother Earth grounded not in urgency alone, but in relationship, presence, and shared experience.

The March is a walking pilgrimage honoring Mother Earth, the feminine principle, and the interconnection between humanity and the natural world. Participants have journeyed together through small, rural communities, feeling welcomed, supported and inspired by each one. The Monks’ Walk for Peace affirmed the call Whitney Freya felt in December 2024 to create The Great Mother March & inspired the community’s participation.

The Earth Day arrival invites the public into a culminating gathering centered on creativity, community, and reverence for life. Programming on the Mall will include guided reflection, creative expression, and community connection, alongside contributions from spiritual leaders, artists, and advocates. Amanda Hendker Voss, minister of First Congregational Church D.C., will offer remarks, bringing a faith-based perspective on stewardship, care, and collective responsibility.

More than a traditional event, the Great Mother March reflects a broader cultural shift toward relational living where the Earth is not viewed as a resource, but as a living system we belong to and care for.

“What we’re witnessing is the power of community.  On the March, we have experienced connection with people met at diners and gas stations, each one honored and echoed the desire to return to an environment of mutual respect and cooperation,” said the Founder, Whitney Freya.

In a time of increasing environmental urgency and social fragmentation, the Great Mother March offers a grounded and hopeful expression of what becomes possible when people come together in reverence, creativity, and shared purpose.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Location: National Mall, Washington, D.C.
Occasion: Earth Day Arrival of the Great Mother March
Learn More: https://www.greatmothermarch.com/home-1

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/great-mother-march-completes-32-day-walk-of-love-arrives-on-national-mall-as-only-earth-day-gathering-302749244.html

SOURCE Great Mother March

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On Earth Day, the Great Mother March will arrive on the National Mall, completing a 32-day walking pilgrimage from Asheville, North Carolina. The gathering stands as the only Earth Day event taking place on the National Mall this year, offering a distinct and meaningful moment of connection, reflection, and collective intention.

At a time when the landscape of environmental advocacy is evolving, the Great Mother March brings a renewed expression of care for Mother Earth grounded not in urgency alone, but in relationship, presence, and shared experience.

The March is a walking pilgrimage honoring Mother Earth, the feminine principle, and the interconnection between humanity and the natural world. Participants have journeyed together through small, rural communities, feeling welcomed, supported and inspired by each one. The Monks’ Walk for Peace affirmed the call Whitney Freya felt in December 2024 to create The Great Mother March & inspired the community’s participation.

The Earth Day arrival invites the public into a culminating gathering centered on creativity, community, and reverence for life. Programming on the Mall will include guided reflection, creative expression, and community connection, alongside contributions from spiritual leaders, artists, and advocates. Amanda Hendker Voss, minister of First Congregational Church D.C., will offer remarks, bringing a faith-based perspective on stewardship, care, and collective responsibility.

More than a traditional event, the Great Mother March reflects a broader cultural shift toward relational living where the Earth is not viewed as a resource, but as a living system we belong to and care for.

“What we’re witnessing is the power of community.  On the March, we have experienced connection with people met at diners and gas stations, each one honored and echoed the desire to return to an environment of mutual respect and cooperation,” said the Founder, Whitney Freya.

In a time of increasing environmental urgency and social fragmentation, the Great Mother March offers a grounded and hopeful expression of what becomes possible when people come together in reverence, creativity, and shared purpose.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Location: National Mall, Washington, D.C.
Occasion: Earth Day Arrival of the Great Mother March
Learn More: https://www.greatmothermarch.com/home-1

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/great-mother-march-completes-32-day-walk-of-love-arrives-on-national-mall-as-only-earth-day-gathering-302749244.html

SOURCE Great Mother March

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On Earth Day, the Great Mother March will arrive on the National Mall, completing a 32-day walking pilgrimage from Asheville, North Carolina. The gathering stands as the only Earth Day event taking place on the National Mall this year, offering a distinct and meaningful moment of connection, reflection, and collective intention.

At a time when the landscape of environmental advocacy is evolving, the Great Mother March brings a renewed expression of care for Mother Earth grounded not in urgency alone, but in relationship, presence, and shared experience.

The March is a walking pilgrimage honoring Mother Earth, the feminine principle, and the interconnection between humanity and the natural world. Participants have journeyed together through small, rural communities, feeling welcomed, supported and inspired by each one. The Monks’ Walk for Peace affirmed the call Whitney Freya felt in December 2024 to create The Great Mother March & inspired the community’s participation.

The Earth Day arrival invites the public into a culminating gathering centered on creativity, community, and reverence for life. Programming on the Mall will include guided reflection, creative expression, and community connection, alongside contributions from spiritual leaders, artists, and advocates. Amanda Hendker Voss, minister of First Congregational Church D.C., will offer remarks, bringing a faith-based perspective on stewardship, care, and collective responsibility.

More than a traditional event, the Great Mother March reflects a broader cultural shift toward relational living where the Earth is not viewed as a resource, but as a living system we belong to and care for.

“What we’re witnessing is the power of community.  On the March, we have experienced connection with people met at diners and gas stations, each one honored and echoed the desire to return to an environment of mutual respect and cooperation,” said the Founder, Whitney Freya.

In a time of increasing environmental urgency and social fragmentation, the Great Mother March offers a grounded and hopeful expression of what becomes possible when people come together in reverence, creativity, and shared purpose.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Location: National Mall, Washington, D.C.
Occasion: Earth Day Arrival of the Great Mother March
Learn More: https://www.greatmothermarch.com/home-1

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/great-mother-march-completes-32-day-walk-of-love-arrives-on-national-mall-as-only-earth-day-gathering-302749244.html

SOURCE Great Mother March

10 Individuals and Organizations Honored for Work on Behalf of People with Developmental Disabilities

EDITOR/REPORTER NOTE: Additional photos are available upon request.

SANTA ANA, Calif., April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) honored 10 individuals and organizations at its 29th annual Spotlight Awards, April 17, 2026 in Garden Grove. Guest-hosted by Orange County Bureau Chief and reporter Michele Gile of CBS Los Angeles, the event was introduced by RCOC Board Chair Sandy Martin. Special guests included Pete Cervinka, Director of the State of California’s Department of Developmental Services and Yang Lee, its Chief Deputy Director.

RCOC created the Spotlight Awards in 1997 to honor those in Orange County who have advanced the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities. The 2026 Regional Center of Orange County Spotlight Award recipients are:

• Parent/Family Member: Evelyn Rodriguez, of Hawaiian Gardens
• RCOC Achievement: Jennifer Kennedy, of Cypress; Area Manager, Regional Center of Orange County, Cypress Office
• Direct Support Professional: Martha England, of Fullerton; Job Coach, Westview Services in Anaheim
• Community Partner: Serving Advantage Adaptive Tennis, of Orange
• Healthcare Professional: Eric Doran; Research Manager, UCI Center for Aging Research in Down Syndrome
• Employer: Orange County Fire Authority, of Irvine
• Self-Advocate: John Correa, of Costa Mesa
• Lifetime Achievement: Stuart Haskin; Founder and Executive Director, Get Safe, in Tustin
• Service Provider: Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center of Santa Ana, Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami, Founder and Executive Director
• E. Kurt Yeager Award (for service leadership): Meena Chockalingam, of Irvine; Board Member, Jeena

About Regional Center of Orange County: Regional Center of Orange County is the private, nonprofit organization contracted by the State of California to coordinate lifelong services and supports for more than 29,000 Orange County residents with developmental disabilities and their families. The Regional Center is the first stop for those seeking to obtain local services and supports to help them live safely and with dignity in the community. Developmental disabilities include intellectual disabilities, autism, epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Learn more at www.rcocdd.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/regional-center-of-orange-county-announces-2026-spotlight-award-honorees-302749154.html

SOURCE Regional Center of Orange County