Our History
How It All Began…
H2O Hero emerged as a public awareness campaign in response to growing concerns about our local water quality. The Water Education Collaborative (WEC) and representatives from Monroe County deployed a community survey that revealed a widespread lack of awareness about the conditions and behaviors that impact water quality, and the simple, everyday actions residents could take to protect their water resources.
WEC engaged Causewave Community Partners (then the Ad Council of Rochester) to develop a public media campaign that would build awareness and inspire the kind of behavioral change that would lead to cleaner water. Since its launch in 2006, H2O Hero has been uniting partners, educating the community, empowering action, and fostering a shared sense of responsibility for the health of our waterways.
Who Are H20 Heroes?
An H2O Hero cares for water and the environment, takes action to make a difference, works with others, and believes that even small steps can create a big impact.
What Does an H20 HERO Look Like?
Look in the mirror! An H2O Hero looks like you, your neighbor, and your friends. Heroes aren’t just people in stories, they’re everyday people who care about clean water and take action to protect it. H2O Heroes come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and the best part is that anyone can be one, including you!
H2O Hero has a new look!
H2O Hero has always been about making water protection approachable and actionable. This new logo captures that friendly, community-driven energy and helps us invite even more people to join the movement.
The otter represents a local wildlife success story whose return reflects the region’s progress in restoring water quality and habitat health. The otter embodies curiosity, resilience, and the interconnectedness of clean water and thriving ecosystems. Alongside the refreshed mark, the updated tagline, “Protecting Water Together,” reinforces the collaborative spirit at the core of the initiative. This new visual identity reflects the shared responsibility of caring for our waterways as a community.
Larry is still a hero, but he’s passing his cape to you so you can wear it proudly. Every time you pick up litter, plant a tree, scoop your pet’s poop, or make planet healthy choices for your home or business, you’re stepping into that hero role!