In 2004, McWane recognized the need to form community advisory panels (CAPs) at several of their facilities comprised of a cross-section of community representatives and company stakeholders which could address issues that affect our interests, including environmental, social and economic impacts. In addition to representatives from our facilities, panel members include local community leaders, public officials, educators, union members, regulators, members of the clergy, residents and business leaders.

Since that time, the CAPs have successfully coordinated the charitable giving and community projects at Atlantic States, Pacific States, Tyler Union, M&H Valve, Clow Water and Kennedy Valve.

For example, the Atlantic States CAP (ASCAP) commits a tremendous amount of time, effort and money toward helping the residents, businesses and not-for-profit organizations in Phillipsburg, NJ. The ASCAP has been involved with and supported numerous community programs, events and local organizations, including the annual Polar Express. At Christmas, the ASCAP provides tickets to local residents to ride on the Polar Express train during the annual Christmas parade. After the 2013 parade, they received a letter of appreciation from Amy Vaughn who received tickets for her son and niece, Blake and Ashlyn, both 4-years-old.

In her note to the ASCAP, Amy said, “When I found out we were given these tickets, I sat and cried as I was so excited knowing how much they would enjoy this experience.”

Blake and Ashlyn will remember the train ride for years to come, but we at McWane and Atlantic States will remember their big beautiful smiles as they rode the train while feasting on cookies and hot chocolate. Check out Amy’s letter above!