Building Resilience in Water Utilities: The Work of Operators Without Borders

Published on by in Non Profit

Building Resilience in Water Utilities: The Work of Operators Without Borders

Building Resilience in Water Utilities: The Work of Operators Without Borders

Operators Without Borders (OWB) serves as a vital resource for water and wastewater utilities in developing nations and disaster-stricken regions. This Vancouver-based charity focuses on restoring access to safe drinking water and effective wastewater management services, with a commitment to capacity building and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since its inception in 2017, OWB has mobilized over 100 volunteers and delivered services valued at nearly $2 million, marking a significant impact in communities worldwide.

The origins of OWB trace back to the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, when Bernard Ettinoffe, General Manager of the Dominica Water and Sewerage Company (DOWASCO), highlighted the pressing need for skilled assistance. Valerie Jenkinson responded by assembling certified water operators from Canada and the United States to aid in recovery efforts. From this response grew a vision to address broader challenges in water and wastewater management, particularly in disaster preparedness, recovery, and capacity building.

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