In recognition of Coachella Valley Water District’s exceptional leadership in support of small water systems. Through its Disadvantaged Communities Infrastructure Task Force, CVWD listened first, partnered with neighboring systems to identify priorities, invested its own resources to assess needs and costs, and developed a comprehensive regional funding and infrastructure plan. By doing work that many larger agencies would consider beyond their responsibility, CVWD helped create a pathway for small systems to secure critical improvements and long-term water reliability.