Giving back to the communities it serves remains a core part of South Carolina Water Utilities’ (SCWU) mission and company culture. In 2025, SCWU team members across the state continued that tradition, dedicating time and energy to community service efforts that supported families, schools, nonprofits, and environmental initiatives throughout South Carolina.
In total, SCWU employees — including team members from Blue Granite Water, Palmetto Utilities, and Kiawah Island Utilities — contributed 740 community service hours in 2025, reinforcing the company’s commitment to strengthening the communities where its employees live and work.
SCWU encourages employees to contribute to their communities with eight hours of volunteer time for community service, thereby reducing barriers to civic engagement and community involvement.
2025 Community Service Highlights
Throughout the year, SCWU employees participated in a wide range of hands-on volunteer activities, including a volunteer build day with HomeWorks of America, where they assisted with home repairs and improvements for a local homeowner in need. Teams also took part in Adopt-A-Highway cleanup efforts across service areas, helping improve roadside safety, appearance, and environmental health.
SCWU employees supported students and families through a drive collecting and distributing school supplies ahead of the new academic year. Employees also participated in community awareness events such as the Walk for Water and the Walk for Life, supporting access to clean water initiatives and local healthcare and research efforts.
In addition to organized company activities, many employees volunteered independently throughout the year by donating blood, assisting at their children’s schools, supporting church outreach programs, and serving their communities in other ways.
Proud Community Sponsors
SCWU was proud to support several community events through sponsorships in 2025, including the Cayce-West Columbia Christmas Parade, where the company donated more than 900 bottles of water for volunteers, first responders, and participants, and the Irmo Okra Strut Festival. SCWU also sponsored the Conservation Voters Green Tie Awards, which recognize leadership and innovation in environmental protection and stewardship across South Carolina.
Leadership in Statewide Water Planning
In 2024, SCWU President Craig Sorensen was appointed to the WaterSC Water Resources Working Group, a statewide body created by Governor Henry McMaster to help guide long-term water planning and policy. The group’s work informed the updated State Water Plan unveiled in December 2025, which focuses on protecting water availability, planning for growth, and ensuring responsible management of South Carolina’s surface and groundwater resources.
SCWU’s community involvement and leadership in water stewardship go hand in hand, reinforcing its mission to protect natural resources and serve as a community-centered utility.
“Our team takes great pride in serving their communities, whether through volunteer service, community partnerships, or leadership at the statewide level,” said Sorensen. “Their dedication reflects SCWU’s commitment to being a responsible, engaged partner across South Carolina.”