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VOORHEES, N.J.--([ BUSINESS WIRE ])--[ American Water ] (NYSE: AWK), the nationas largest publicly traded water and wastewater utility company, has announced that it is one of the winners in the Philadelphia Business Journalas Healthiest Employers Awards. This marks the second consecutive year the company has been recognized for leading the way in workplace wellness in the Delaware Valley.

"American Water cares about the health and wellness of our employees and their families. We strive to integrate our health and wellness program in every facet of the business to encourage a culture of good health at American Water"

American Water launched its official health and wellness program, Healthy Solutions, to employees nationwide in July 2010. The program includes access to a dedicated website, on which employees and their families can participate in a free, confidential health assessment, as well as get tools and tips about health, fitness, stress management and weight management. The program also offers wellness challenges throughout the year and access to customized healthy living coaching programs, as well as financial incentives and other rewards to employees for participation.

After the first year, Healthy Solutions helped the companyas healthcare costs remain flat, which enabled American Water to actually lower employee healthcare contributions for 2012. Among those participating in condition management for heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary artery disease, diabetes and asthma, there was a 23 percent decrease in hospital admissions and 10 percent reduction in emergency room visits.

aAmerican Water cares about the health and wellness of our employees and their families. We strive to integrate our health and wellness program in every facet of the business to encourage a culture of good health at American Water,a said Peg Fenner-Gulledge, Health & Wellness Manager at American Water. aI am proud of what we have accomplished in just one year, and excited we are building a more productive work force and healthy work environment for our employees.a

The Healthiest Employers Awards program recognizes organizations in the Greater Philadelphia region that are committed to creating a healthy workplace. The award utilizes an online assessment tool that measures employee wellness programs in six key categories, including culture and leadership commitment, foundational components, strategic planning, communication, programming, and reporting and analysis. Answers to the assessment are scored and companies are automatically ranked. The highest-ranking winner in each category (based on number of employees) will be announced at a ceremony in May.

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs approximately 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 15 million people in more than 30 states and parts of Canada. More information can be found at [ www.amwater.com ].

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