Pipeline: A New Plumbing Non-Profit Empowering Communities Across the United States

Pipeline (not to be confused with The Pipeline with Tom Roberts) is a plumbing non-profit organization newly established through the leadership of Mark Falcon and with support from the wider plumbing industry.  

Many will know Falcon from his episode on Season 3 of American Plumber Stories (see episode). The idea for Pipeline came to Falcon after watching Martin Porte’s episode of American Plumber Stories (see episode) in Season 5, where through sponsorship from the International Code Council (ICC), the show went international and featured plumbers from Alaska, Hawaii, Australia and Canada.  

This season showed how important plumbing is to communities all over the world, and Porte’s episode demonstrated his dedication to helping these communities, regardless of the location or challenge.  

At the ICC’s Annual Conference in Long Beach, Calif. in 2024, Falcon, Porte, Jorge Arias (see episode) and many others from the plumbing industry around the world met in person. This industry meeting inspired Falcon to pack his bags and leave South Dakota to travel all the way to Australia.  

This was no vacation though – during the trip Falcon and Porte teamed up to provide essential plumbing services to a remote indigenous community on a small island off the coast of Tasmania. Like any community, plumbing is essential to ensure proper sanitation, clean drinking water and a hot shower. Access in this area is a major challenge, as both personnel and plumbing materials must be flown in by light aircraft. 

Remote areas of Australia aren’t the only places where communities lack essential plumbing services, and this inspired Falcon to continue to give back and start Pipeline. 

Pipeline’s First Project 

A critical infrastructure need in Rapid City, South Dakota, has recently been identified by OneHeart, a nonprofit organization. Pipeline is working with OneHeart to restore a damaged sewer line which is vital to protecting the health and dignity of families in the area.  

Equally essential is the development of a sustainable source of clean drinking water, as access to safe water is foundational to health, hygiene and overall quality of life, especially for those facing tough circumstances. Together, a reliable sewage system and a consistent supply of potable water are key to preventing illness and fostering a safe, supportive environment. 

Additionally, OneHeart efficiently, effectively and collectively helps those in the Rapid City community without homes move into permanent housing and achieve a better quality of life. The first stage of work has already started but there is much more to be done. 

Here’s How You Can Make a Real Difference 

OneHeart is dedicated to uplifting lives within their community by providing vital services to those who need them most. Rather than setting up a traditional crowdfunding campaign, OneHeart has opted for a more strategic approach to ensure every contribution is directed towards these urgent needs.  

Here’s how you can be part of the change: 

1. Visit their Donation Page  
2. Specify Your Contribution – In the comments section, indicate “Sewer Line” or “Water Source.” This ensures that your donation is directed specifically to these critical projects. 
3. Be the Change – Your generous gift will go directly to OneHeart to assist them in meeting the needs of the less fortunate. Every dollar contributed has the power to transform lives and infuse hope, dignity and safety into the Rapid City community.  

What’s Next for Pipeline? 

Pipeline is just getting started, with their next project involving working with the Rapid City Police Department to restore plumbing needs in Star Village, a low-income housing development with substantial plumbing issues.  

This new initiative is actively seeking partners and supporters to help the organization grow and extend its support to communities in need across the United States. Anyone who would like to get involved or support future projects, please contact Pipeline here. 

“We welcome support in many forms,” said Falcon. “Financial contributions are especially needed to help cover project costs. We’re also seeking plumbers who are willing to volunteer their time and expertise, whether to give back or gain hands-on experience. Additionally, we invite manufacturers and suppliers who can contribute materials to help bring our projects to life.” 

Together, we can drive real change by guaranteeing access to clean water and safe sewage disposal. 

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