Last year, promo raised $175,000 to combat global water poverty, through a campaign started by industry philanthropy group PromoCares.

This year, the Water4Good campaign has an even more ambitious goal: to raise at least $200,000 – or enough funding to build eight to 10 water towers in underprivileged communities in Mexico by 2025.

“As an industry rooted in creativity and connection, the promotional products space has an opportunity to make a real difference in the world,” said Scott Pearson, PromoCares board member. “By supporting Planet Water, we’re not just giving back; we’re investing in a sustainable future for generations to come.”

He added that “Clean water is a fundamental human right, and together, we can help ensure everyone has access to this essential resource.”

The nonprofit Planet Water Foundation, established in 2009, installs community-based water filtration systems, handwashing infrastructures and hygiene education programs in areas that need it most. Its AquaTowers are gravity-based water filtration systems that can produce 1,000 liters of drinking water per hour – supporting the daily drinking requirements of up to 1,800 people, according to the nonprofit.

<

The 2023 Water4Good campaign raised enough money to build seven water filtration towers to benefit disadvantaged schools and communities in Mexico. The towers have a weekly output of 42,000 liters – enough to fill an average residential swimming pool, according to the campaign’s impact report. They estimate that 12,600 people now have access to safe drinking water, thanks to the fundraising efforts.

David Shultz, a vice president at communsku and PromoCares board member, said traveling to Mexico last fall to build the towers with Planet Water was an honor, but also eye-opening.

“This project is more than just construction,” he added. “It’s about building hope and a healthier future for an entire community, which we got to see with our own eyes.”

Donations to this year’s campaign are already rolling in. As of Friday, Nov. 1, the 2024 Water4Good campaign had already raised more than $90,000. The largest donation so far comes from Counselor Top 40 supplier Hit Promotional Products (asi/61125), which donated $80,000.

Krista Ward, vice president of marketing, noted on the donation page that Hit’s donation would go toward four water filtration towers across Asia.

“These installations, funded by our contribution, are a testament to our shared vision of creating a healthier, more sustainable world,” she added.

Promo for the Planet is your destination for the latest news, biggest trends and best ideas to help build a more sustainable and socially-responsible industry.