celebrating women: Bangladesh.
It’s International Women’s Day today — and we love women. All week, we’re going to share photos of some of the women and girls we met in the field that have stuck with us.
Today, we’re remembering the strong young girls from Dmkhali Primary School in Bangladesh. They’re receiving a freshwater well soon at their school thanks to generous charity: water donors.
Our water projects in the Cyclone Sidr affected zone are GREAT. I Saw about 10 of our 180 wells and pond sand filters. I’ll get those photos together over the next few days en route to Ethiopia.
You can read the story of Cyclone Sidr from last year here.
Through partner Concern Worldwide Bangladesh, charity: water is exploring exciting opportunities for urban water and sanitation projects in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
More than 20,000 people live on the streets of Dhaka. They are called the “Pavement Dwellers,” and many make only 30 cents a day. For work, they collect and recycle garbage, clean, and do small jobs. Entire families with small children live on medians, under stadiums, and in dark alleys filled with sewage and cobwebs.
We’re excited to learn how we might be able to meet some of their great needs for clean water, bathrooms and bathing facilities.
-Scott Harrison
Poppy doesn’t speak much at first. She acknowledges me with a shy nod and smiles warmly, her red lipstick a perfect match to her bright floral sari.
Then, she promptly offers to show me her toilet.
I’m in Bangladesh with our Water Programs Manager, Jonna, to visit charity: water projects and explore new water and sanitation opportunities. Today, that means a block of latrines in a crowded slum in the country’s capital city. Toilets are nothing new to the charity: water team. During the last few months especially, we’ve racked up quite a few miles over some rough terrain to see varying latrine designs. But this latrine block is quite a bit different. In Bangladesh’s urban areas, nearly 20 million people live without sanitation. Yet these toilets were made to help a group that would otherwise likely sit at the end of the list — the physically disabled.
We’re in Pora Bosti, which means “Burned Slum.” Years back, this entire area caught fire and burned to the ground; the name has stuck ever since.
Pora Bosti is home to an enclave of handicapped residents. Some use a crutch to walk; others have wooden wheelchairs or crawl on their hands. But with five different latrines built to accommodate different physical ailments, all now have ready access to a safe and clean place to do their business.
Poppy is the president of the management committee which oversees these latrines along with a freshwater well installed here. When she was 12 years old, she was hit by a car (this is not hard to believe in traffic-laden Dhaka). She now lacks the use of her legs, but seems to get around fine in her wheelchair. And she’s excited to show us not only what the toilet she uses looks like — but how quickly and easily she can hop on the seat.
“Before we had these toilets, we would try to go in other toilets that aren’t really usable for us,” she tells us. “So we might go by ourselves in an open space, in the dark so no one would see.”
Poppy’s committee of 18 members collects a monthly fee of 1,000 Taka per family that uses the latrines (about $14, though the rate varies based on income), which they keep in their group bank account until they need funds for maintenance or repairs. They meet once a month to discuss hygiene practices while making sure the current latrine designs are working for everyone using them. And if they aren’t? Then they alter the model. This is why Poppy’s chosen toilet has a rope dangling from the center of the ceiling; she proposed it to the organization that helped build the facility, it was installed, and now she can comfortably use the bathroom.
“I’m happy I can use this now,” she tells us, though she doesn’t really have to. Her eagerness to show us her toilet in the first place spoke for itself.
On the way out, I take another glance at the latrine doors; they’re each decorated with colorful murals showing people with different disabilities. I’ve never seen so much artistic detail on (or in) a bathroom in my life. The paintings seem to me a mark of creativity and ownership, but also of pride. Poppy made it clear: she and her neighbors in this little corner of Pora Bosti aren’t hiding their disabilities. And they’re no longer ashamed of how they go about doing what we all have to do several times each day.In fact, they’re making it plain for anyone to recognize their right to — and their excitement about — toilets. What better way to show confidence in how you do your business?
– Mo Scarpelli
charity: water multimedia producer
1.5 million.
That’s the number of people who have gained access to clean and safe water thanks to our brand partners. We are incredibly grateful for this community of like-minded brands and their ability to raise awareness for the water crisis in powerful and creative ways.
To celebrate their work and inspire new collaborations, we hosted our third annual Brand Partnership X Summit at Canoe Studios in NYC! This year, we were joined by over 65 brands for a day of insightful conversations. We focused on innovation and what it means for our work at charity: water, in partnerships, and in the world around us. From groundbreaking sensor technology and the launch of The Pool to jewelry crafted from meteorites and sprinkle-filled rainbow cakes, we left feeling inspired to keep creating and pushing the boundaries.
Check out the highlights from this year’s event:
We are so grateful to everyone who joined us. The Summit would not have been possible without our speakers who generously gave their time to help us see how purposeful innovation can drive change. A very special thank you to:
Professor, author, and entrepreneur Scott Galloway, for showing us the importance of having a meaningful career and helping us understand our life strategies, not just business strategies.
Kristin De Simone and Sylvia Hartley, Partners at Thrive Market, for sharing the story of how Thrive Market decided to partner with charity: water and for reimagining what giving means for their brand and customers.
Simon Sinek, optimist and bestselling author, for teaching us what it means to feel fulfilled and reminding us that we need to build the future together.
Artist and designer Monique Péan, for sharing her story and inspiring us with her incredible craft and unwavering commitment to sustainability and support of local communities.
Paull Young, Partner at Facebook, for showing us what being a true partner really means and encouraging the importance of working in tandem to create change.
Amirah Kassem, baker and entrepreneur, for urging us to be our true selves and demonstrating how working hard and inspiring joy can go hand-in-hand!
Another special thank you to Canoe Studios for the beautiful space and delicious catering; Taylor Creative for the comfortable and stylish furnishings; Badger Mountain Vineyard and Sunday Beer Co for providing the wine and beer for cocktail hour; Thrive Market and Scott Galloway for helping us fill our swag bags; C2 Imaging for printing and installing the stunning branding elements; Dear Bayard for the beautiful greenery; The Spaniard for hosting our pre-event cocktail party; and all of the volunteers who worked tirelessly and joyfully to ensure the day went off without a hitch.
To learn more about our brand partnerships or to get your brand involved, please contact: brandpartnerships@charitywater.org
Meet our incredible Spring 2019 interns! As you’ll soon see, they’re a pretty fun group. We’ll miss having them around the office everyday, but thanks to their hard work and dedication, the impact they’ve had will continue to be felt long after their internships end.
Water Programs Intern
From: Westerville, Ohio
School: The Fashion Institute of Technology
Studying: Entrepreneurship
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
I like the freedom to move about the office and work wherever! I also really like that it’s encouraged to get to know people outside of your department.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned while interning at charity: water?
I learned a lot about grant implementation and the importance of clean data.
Rev Ops Intern
From: Kinnelon, New Jersey
School: Northeastern University
Studying: Global Health and Development with a concentration in Sub-Saharan Africa
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
The thing I like the most about the internship is the fact that we are truly treated as team members. The best part of charity: water culture is transparency. It is what sets us apart from most charities.
What do you like most about the internship program?
I love the amount of opportunities to learn through brown bags, meetings, town halls, and 1:1 meetings with team members.
Water Programs Intern
From: Mumbai, India
School: Pace University
Studying: Information Systems
What do you like most about the internship program?
Freedom to learn anything you have the curiosity for.
Graphic Design Intern
From: China
School: Pratt Institute
Studying: Graphic Design
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
This is my third internship. charity: water is something special. I look forward to coming into the office not only because the work I’m doing matters, but because the people surrounding me lift me up everyday. No question is dumb; everyone is continually learning and growing—professionally and personally—together.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned while interning at charity: water?
You should never settle. This workplace makes me realize that there is an environment where you can have it all. A place where I can ask my questions, share my ideas, and continually grow while building relationships that matter and working towards the shared, attainable goal of clean water for everyone. The charity: water environment is unlike any other. It’s hard to find the words for how empowered you feel entering this space every day.
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
I love the feeling of coming into the office. The whole place exudes a sense of steady purpose. Everyone here accepts charity: water’s mission as their own, so even when people are not trying to share their values and inspirations, they wind up inspiring me.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned while interning at charity: water?
The BIGGEST thing is probably the scale of the water crisis, and the most amazing thing is probably its solvability, despite the scale. On an organizational level, it has been an eye opening experience to try to wrap my head around all the moving parts at charity: water, and I am grateful for the insight this internship has given me into how an innovative and successful charity can operate.
From: Altadena, California
School: The King’s College
Studying: Finance
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
I like that I’ve been able to apply everything I learned in the classroom to my tasks at charity: water. I also enjoyed getting out of my comfort zone and learning from kind professionals in finance and accounting. I appreciate how willing and open everyone is to have conversations, give me advice, and answer my questions.
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
I loved the atmosphere at charity: water. Everyone is on the same page when it comes to positivity and hard work. But kindness and generosity are still weaved into everyone’s interactions so I never felt any pressure to be perfect.
What do you like most about the internship program?
The flexibility, and the ability to learn from everyone in the office. I never felt limited to just Key Relationships and helped out a lot in other departments.
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
I love charity: water’s focus on transparency and collaboration!
What do you like most about the internship program?
I enjoy having a range of assigned projects. Whether I am sending out birthday gifts or updating spreadsheets, I love doing meaningful work for the organization that helps solve the water crisis!
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
The welcoming and positive atmosphere. Everyone is willing to take effort and time to get to know you as a person and offer help and support. I loved learning practical life lessons from so many different awesome people at charity: water.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned while interning at charity: water?
It is essential to cultivate meaningful relationships, both personally and professionally. Awesome to learn how charity: water can bring people together from all over the world across so many different industries under the same mission.
What do you like the most about your internship at charity: water and our culture?
I like how everyone shares the same headspace and works toward the same goal. It’s something that’s not easily observed from my previous experiences.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned while interning at charity: water?
So many things. Transparency, brand, content, storytelling, relationships with supporters/donors/corporations….
(P.S. Jimmy captured and created all of the videos in this post! Thanks, Jimmy!)
We’ve got an incredible lineup of interns this quarter, and we can’t wait to introduce you! Here are our leading ladies…
Office Experience Intern
Working under Joy Caroline: Office Coordinator
School: The King’s College
Major: Religious and Theological Studies
Graduating May 2019
What are you most proud of working on while at charity: water?
Scott Harrison, the CEO of charity: water wrote a book that came out in October (https://www.charitywater.org/thirst). I was given the opportunity to assist the staff planning the book launch event. As well as aiding in prepping the food, decor, and flow of the night I was put in charge of creating the floral arrangements. For the first time in my years of internships I got to use a hobby of mine in the workplace! Overall the launch was a success and everyone LOVED the floral arrangements.
Water Programs Intern
Working under Hannah Matthews: Water Programs
School: University of California, Los Angeles
Major: Global Studies
Graduated June 2018
What are you most proud of working on while at charity: water?
As a member of the water programs team, I am so proud that I get to be a part of the work that executes charity: water’s mission in the field. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be able to work with our grants and partners to further the vision of a world where everyone has clean water!
Accounting Intern
Working under Yohanny Vargas: Accounting
School: The King’s College
Major: Business- Concentration in Finance
Graduating May 2019
What is your favorite aspect of your charity: water internship?
I have absolutely loved my internship at charity: water because of the people, culture, and how willing they are to teach you. Everyone here really wants to see you learn and grow. Pizza on Friday and bagels on Monday are also a plus!
Productions and Events Intern
Working under Christina Lutters: Productions Team
School: The King’s College
Major: Business Management, minor in economics
Graduating May 2020
What is your favorite aspect of your charity: water internship?
After completing the Accounting Internship in the fall, I was eager to continue my time at charity: water working for a new team to see how the organization is run from a different department. As the Production and Events Intern, I help assist the production team with various projects concerning donor reporting, the Thirst book launch, and the charity: ball gala. After six months interning here, I greatly value charity: water’s unique office environment and great attention to detail - two key aspects of the organization that I know I will miss when my internship ends.
Water Project Sponsor Donor Reporting and Revenue Operations Intern
Working under Shirley: Key Relationships
School: New York University
Major: Film and Business
Graduating May 2020
What is the best thing you’ve done while interning for charity: water?
As a WPS intern, I work with major donors before and after their donations come in. My job includes sending project updates to past donors, organizing large incoming donations into our system, and working on pitching projects to potential donors. At the intersection of working with our past, present and future supporters, updating both donation and beneficiary numbers, I get to see large-scale fundraising at work and watch that translate materially into the water projects and lives we impact all around the world.
Key Relationships - The Well Intern
Working under Rachel Sapire: Key Relationships
School: University of Michigan
Major: Public Policy
Graduated April 2018
What is the best thing you’ve done while interning for charity: water?
Hunting for the perfect birthday gifts for our awesome Well members :)
Key Relationships Intern
Working under Brady Essmann: Key Relationships
School: Baruch College
Major: Public Administration
Graduating December 2018
What has surprised you the most about charity: water?
Great office culture, the willingness of everyone to help. Coffee dates with staff and intern brown bags with senior staff.
Brand Partnership Intern
Working under Galila Gray: Brand Partnerships
School: New York University
Major: Social and Political Philosophy
Graduating May 2020
What has surprised you the most about charity: water?
I am constantly surprised by how charity: water functions in a way that is so different from other nonprofits. It’s true when they say they operate more like a startup!
This summer, charity: water has 13 excited and dedicated interns working to support our staff in incredible ways. They help us run the office, work with our supporters, and so much more. Needless to say, they’re a crucial part of the charity: water team. Meet our phenomenal summer interns!
School: The University of Texas at Austin
Team: People and Culture
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I wanted to be immersed in an environment where I knew everyone was passionate about what they were doing and actually wanted to come to work every day. The first time I interviewed with charity: water, I could tell that it was filled with young, creative, and inspiring individuals and that I would be lucky to learn from them. charity: water’s mission keeps me aware of the water crisis and makes me hopeful that there is a solution to this problem. I know that the individuals at charity: water will be a huge part of the solution.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
I love the strong culture at charity: water. Everyone genuinely wants to meet you and learn more about you. charity: water promotes respect, openness, and fun while also keeping you motivated to work hard. I see that everyday in the office.
Fun Fact:
I love to travel. I just spent 2 weeks in India, visiting cities like Bangalore, Agra, Udaipur, and Jaipur. I hope to visit Switzerland or Iceland next!
School: University of Miami
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: Weehawken, NJ
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
When I started researching charity: water it became apparent that it operated with a significantly different business model than the typical non-profit. I couldn’t get it out of my mind and watched just about every single Youtube video on charity: water I could find. I was inspired not only by the work charity: water was doing but how they were doing it, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I’m consistently updating donor data and organizing donor lists by whatever criteria our UK managing director wants to search for, but I can also be found doing anything from shipping gifts to researching the philanthropic culture in Germany.
Fun Fact:
When I’m not at the office, I love shooting and editing videos.
School: The College of New Jersey
Team: Brand Partnerships
Hometown: Montvale, New Jersey
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I first learned about charity: water after a life-changing mission trip to Nicaragua where I witnessed the water crisis firsthand. I was in awe of the organization’s 100% model and its different approach to charity, so I decided to get involved and donate my 21st birthday to clean water. Since then, it has been a dream of mine to work at charity: water, and I am thrilled to be interning with the Brand Partnerships team this summer!
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
The best part of interning at charity: water is being surrounded by people that truly embody the mission and values of the organization. There is a palpable energy that you feel when you walk into the office, and you know that the work you are doing everyday is changing the lives of people around the world.
Fun Fact:
Outside of work, I love anything related to interior design! I am a certified paint color specialist and am always looking for my next DIY home project.
School: Yale School of Management
Team: Finance
Hometown: New York City
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
To put it simply, I wanted to intern at charity: water because of its mission. I was drawn to not only charity: water’s amazing work around world to bring clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations but also to its 100% model and its commitment to transparency. I thought that this was a great opportunity for me to learn more about the nonprofit sector.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I am working on two projects for the Finance team. This involves data crunching and research. I am also in meetings with different people to learn more about how charity: water functions and about resources I can use to solve questions I am given this summer.
Fun Fact:
I won the Top Chef competition at my school with my team, and I made over 200 oolong tea-infused madeleine cookies.
School: Tufts University
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: New York, NY
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I learned about charity: water through a program at my university, and I was taken by the idea of spending the summer working for the public good. I have also always been interested in our relationship with water as a species – it’s something we can’t live without, of course, but also a resource that we consistently abuse. Working to solve the water crisis satisfies this interest very well.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
The donors! They’re the people who allow us bring clean water to so many communities around the globe, and their stories never cease to amaze me. The passion, creativity, and diversity of our supporters is incredible.
Fun Fact:
I’m a certified SCUBA diver and an avid rock climber!
School: Missouri State University
Team: Water Programs
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I wanted to intern at charity: water because I’m sold on its mission and vision for both the nonprofit sector and the world at large. I’m amazed and inspired by the combination of creativity, hope, passion, and innovation that exists in charity: water’s everyday operations, and I wanted to be a part of a team that championed all of those values for an amazing cause.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I have a little bit of background in computer science, so I spend some of my time writing code that can help our team organize data in useful and efficient ways. I also spend time doing research on various aspects of our programs, projects, and partners in the field, and I help review photos from completed projects for charity: water’s website.
Fun Fact:
I can do the splits, though I require adequate time for stretching if a demonstration is required.
School: The King’s College, NYC
Team: Finance
Hometown: Vero Beach, Florida
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
Since watching Scott Harrison’s TED Talk in high school, I have had a passion for the water crisis and was excited to contribute to an organization that is dedicated to transparency and accurate reporting through the 100% model.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
My favorite part about interning at charity: water is the people. I love the office environment and the fact that you can see how passionate every employee at charity: water is about taking steps to solve the water crisis. Even though the work I do on the finance team is tedious, the fact that it’s benefiting a charity I believe in is what makes this internship enjoyable.
Fun Fact:
I’ve hiked almost 90 miles of the Appalachian Trail.
School: Wake Forest University
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: Durham, NC
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
Once I heard the story behind the founding of charity: water, I knew I wanted to be a part of the amazing work charity: water does everyday. I loved charity: water’s concept of reinventing charity. I have a passion for helping others and charity: water is an amazing place to learn from and work with others with the same passion.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
No one day is the same at charity: water. I do various tasks such as donor outreach and prospecting, creating impact reports, sending gifts to donors, collecting and organizing data, writing thank you notes, and hopping in on phone calls with our amazing Water Project Sponsors.
Fun Fact:
I have never had a cup of coffee!
School: Duke University
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: Armonk, NY
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I remember learning about charity: water in middle school and being amazed by the organization’s immense impact. After seeing the job posting and doing some research, that same sense of wonder came back. Watching videos and exploring the website showed me just how important and good charity: water is. I wanted to do my part in moving the mission forward.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
I love learning about charity: water and sharing that information with people. Whenever anyone asks me about charity: water, I tell them all about the water crisis, water projects, transparency, and the 100% model. Most people are very impressed by charity: water, and I’m proud to be a part of such a great organization.
Fun Fact:
I went to sleepaway camp for nine years.
School: The King’s College, NYC
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I heard about charity: water a couple of years ago through friends who interned here. I was so impressed by the 100% model and the way they portray the people they’ve helped in such a beautiful, hopeful way. I’ve been interested in nonprofits that aid in economic development, fundraising, and donor relations. The Key Relationships internship was a perfect fit for the fundraising & donor relationship experience I was looking to gain!
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I always head to grab a cup of coffee first to get the caffeine flowing. I check in with my manager and with my basecamp to-do lists for tasks for the day. My projects range from donor research, making updates in our donor database, helping organize and curate event invite lists, writing birthday cards to our donors, and really whatever my boss needs help with! I’ve gotten to help assist with some really awesome events outside the office as well with the rest of the KR team.
Fun Fact:
Outside of work and school, I love going to concerts at any of the amazing venues in NYC– I’ve been to over 50 in the past couple years. (starting to lose count!)
School: The King’s College, NYC
Team: Supporter Experience
Hometown: Buffalo, NY
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I’ve been a huge supporter of clean water charities since I was twelve. I have a friend who interned at charity: water a few years ago and she loved the experience, so I knew I had to intern here. I immediately fell in love with the amazing work each team devotes themselves to each day.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
The people that work in this office are some of the most passionate, warm-hearted individuals I’ve ever met. They truly care about connecting with all the interns, about doing their job well, and they know how to have fun in between! I have so much respect for every person that works here, and I feel like I’ve already learned so much by being here. I also love hearing people’s stories, so talking on the phone with our supporters about their passion for charity: water is something I’ll never get tired of.
Fun Fact:
I really really love dogs! (Okay, who doesn’t?) My family and I are puppy raisers for Guiding Eyes for the Blind. This means that we take a puppy in at around eight weeks old, train them for a little over a year, and then they are able to become fully-trained guide dogs. It’s a process that takes a lot of patience and care, but is so rewarding in the end! We also have dogs of our own, so in total, I’ve lived with 11 dogs in my lifetime!
School: Santa Clara University
Team: Water Projects
Hometown: Darien, CT
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I wanted to intern at charity: water because I believe that every person on earth deserves the basic opportunities to progress in their lives, and access to clean water is the master key that opens doors to many. It brings a base of good health and time which allows for opportunities such as education, work, and family. In my mind, what charity: water does is extremely important to humanity and that’s why I wanted to be involved.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
I have really loved my time at charity: water so far. However, my favorite part about interning at charity: water is that I feel like it is an environment that brings everyone that touches it joy. My coworkers are enthusiastic to work on projects, visitors seem happy, donors are ecstatic, and the people who receive our water projects are super elated. A lot of good vibes around here!
Fun Fact:
I am a DJ on my university’s radio station. My name over the air is DJ Dori$ and I love to play all types of music (except for country and screamo).
School: New York University
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: Wayne, NJ
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
Like most people, I was initially drawn to charity: water because of the mission. I was also intrigued by the 100% model and wanted to learn more about how the organization operates in such a unique way.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
It’s hard to say, but I think my favorite part about interning here is that the organization puts a lot of time and effort towards cultivating a great work culture and it shows. Everyone I’ve met so far is genuinely hardworking, passionate, and happy to be doing what they do.
Fun Fact:
I have a very impressive high score on 2048.
——
Want to be a part of the next class of interns at charity: water?
You’re in luck, fall internships just went live! Apply here today.
We are so grateful to have an incredible brand partnership community at charity: water. Brands so committed to seeing an end to the water crisis that they’ve dedicated their time, talent, and creativity to finding unique and powerful ways to raise awareness through their businesses. To date, they’ve helped us raise $42 million to serve over 1.1 million people around the globe with clean and safe drinking water. It’s an testament to the power of connecting business and purpose.
In 2017, we had the crazy idea to gather our brand partners and friends of the organization at our headquarters in NYC for a day of inspiring presentations and thought-provoking panels. We were so moved by the stories they shared and the innovative ideas in the room that we decided to make it an annual event. This year, 56 brands attended our Brand Partnership X Summit at The Mezzanine in NYC to get an update on charity: water, hear from inspirational business leaders, learn about the power of collaboration, and make new friends.
We were most surprised by the candor and vulnerability in the room. We were encouraged to reflect not just on our business’s purpose but on our personal purpose as well.
Check out the highlights from this year’s event:
https://vimeo.com/274144180/6aff472dce
This summit would not have been possible without our amazing speakers who generously took time out of their busy schedules to inspire us and teach us how to effectively weave purpose and generosity into our work. A special thanks to:
Brant Cryder, President of Saint Laurent, for sharing his personal connection to the organization, experience in the field, and how that fueled a partnership with charity: water.
Andrea Sullivan (VaynerMedia), Erin Grau (Away), and Karie Brown (Comic Relief US) for giving us fresh ideas on collaborating in the workplace.
Miguel McKelvey, Co-Founder and COO of WeWork, for teaching us how to build a company rooted in culture and community and for reminding us of the immense power of love.
Kyle Guerin from The Smile Generation. To date, this group of dentists has raised more than $4.5 million, and their current fundraising campaign, Together We Give, has raised a whopping $532,000 for clean water projects.
Beth Comstock, change maker and author, for inspiring the group to summon creativity and courage in the midst of change.
Stephen Bruner, Partner at Corkcicle, for sharing what prompted him to get his company involved. (Corkcicle donates 5% from all website sales to charity: water.)
We’d also love to thank Taylor Creative for donating the beautiful furniture we used to deck out the space; Corkcicle, Happy Plugs, PopSockets, and Yoobi for stuffing our swag bags; and Winc, WeWork, Interboro Spirits and Ales for keeping our guests hydrated throughout the event.
This is truly the dream team, and we couldn’t be more grateful for them.
To learn more about our brand partnerships or if you’re interested in getting your brand involved, please contact: corporategiving@charitywater.org
Photos and video: Jonah Lorsung
Each season we have the opportunity to work with a group of passionate and diligent interns who support our staff in incredible ways. From developing new skills to building relationships, our interns are a crucial part of the charity: water team. Meet our amazing spring interns!
School: Fordham University
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: Essex, CT
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I learned about charity: water a few years ago through social media, and the organization’s mission as well as the hopeful, beautiful branding immediately caught my attention. It made me stop to think about the sheer number of people who spend hours every day hauling unclean, unhealthy water, and realize what clean water can mean for an individual, especially girls and women. Ever since then, I’ve wanted to be a part of charity: water and help people around the world get access to the lifeline and the opportunities that clean & safe drinking water provide.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I usually grab my computer and a cup of coffee and check my emails and calendar. Then, I usually spend my time collecting and organizing data to help our Key Relationships team keep in contact with our amazing donors! I also send a lot of thank you notes to donors that sponsor entire water projects.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
The people! I love coming into work and immediately feeling all the positive, creative, motivated energy that fills this space. The Key Relationships team is full of amazingly talented, smart, funny, and kind staff & interns that inspire me every day. I also really love learning about the way nonprofits are run, and learning about all the different people and departments that keep this place going!
What is your favorite NYC hangout?
I’m a total foodie, so when I have the time, I’m usually running all over the city looking for delicious food & dessert – there’s too many awesome neighborhoods to pick just one! I’m also incredibly lucky to go to school right next to the New York Botanical Garden, which is another favorite of mine.
Fun Fact:
My dream job is to be a photojournalist and work for National Geographic.
School: University of Warwick
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: England
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I enjoyed reading about all the work charity: water had done and the different ways people had been supporting them. I was excited to be part of an organization that is passionate about making a difference, and one where my work would support those that are not getting the opportunities they deserve.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I like coming in and making myself a cup of coffee, and then checking my calendar for anything I need to attend that day. The main project I am currently working on is researching major donors. I also help my manager with other smaller tasks such as updating information on NetSuite and mailing gifts to donors.
What is your favourite part of interning at charity: water
My favourite part is the people I get to work with. Everyone is very welcoming and willing to answer any questions. I am excited to get to know the people in the organization.
What is your favourite NYC hangout?
My favourite NYC hangout is Astoria Park.
Fun Fact:
I lived in England for 22 years before moving to New York City last July.
School: The King’s College
Team: Production
Hometown: Asheville, North Carolina
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I have friends who interned at charity: water in the past and they all loved it. I didn’t want an internship where I ran to get coffee every day instead of actually working, so after hearing the reviews of this program I knew it was a perfect fit.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I typically come in and answer any emails I might have, then I start on any tasks that Laura and Johanna assigned to me. Sometimes I have to make itineraries for Scott or send merchandise to the UK office or go see a venue. Every day is a little different!
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
The people that work at charity: water are my favorite part of this internship. Everyone here has been very kind and open, which I’m very appreciative of.
What is your favorite NYC hangout?
I love the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. I lived right next to it for my first two years in the city so it’s a like a little piece of home.
Fun Fact:
My favorite movies are Good Will Hunting and Tangled.
School: NYU
Team: Marketing
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I found out about charity: water recently when I moved to NYC. An Instagram influencer that I follow posted about charity: water and I decided to learn more about it. I quickly realized that charity: water was different and was drawn in by the commitment to transparency and honesty (something I wasn’t used to seeing a lot of in other nonprofits). I decided it would be a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the inner workings of a charitable organization and help guide me in choosing a possible career path.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I’m usually at the front desk, so my day begins by listening to the voicemails left on the Dialpad as well as reading through the call logs and either triaging them to other team members or taking care of it as best I can. If I’m not answering phone calls or greeting visitors while at the desk, I’m usually responding to inquiries that come through the Help Center or info@. Additionally, I’m assisting Annalise with any other tasks that come up (ie. shipping out supporter mail, communicating with students, or providing supporter to fundraisers)
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
I really enjoy hearing people’s stories. And I think charity: water supporters have some of the best stories to tell. Whether it’s why they decided to donate or what their giving experience has taught them, hearing our supporters express their joy and excitement for the cause is always so awesome!
What is your favorite NYC hangout?
You can almost always find me eating at a Sweetgreen or at Pier 40 playing in a pick-up soccer game. NYC has so many cool places to explore, so I like putting on my sneakers and going on a run across town to really appreciate all it has to offer.
Fun Fact:
I’m a huge Manchester United supporter and got to see them play when they went to California last year. Next thing to check off the bucket list: The World Cup!
School: LIM
Team: Key Relationships
Hometown: Swiftwater, PA
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
In the spring semester of 2017, I took a nonprofit management and cause marketing course to learn more about nonprofits. For the final project in my nonprofit management course, we had to do a research project on an NYC nonprofit. After a quick search, I came across charity: water and immediately wanted to learn all I could. After completing my research project I was eager to learn even more about charity: water and knew I wanted to apply for an internship position.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
When I come into the office the first thing I do is get myself a cup of hot water for tea. I do this first thing because the water is so hot that it takes at least 40 minutes to reach a drinkable temperature. My typical daily tasks consist of mailing out birthday gifts, mailing out packages, working on projects given to me by my manager, attending meetings, and helping out with intern requests when I can!
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
For me, doing a research project on charity: water and now being here as an intern a year later is very rewarding. I love how transparent, honest, and real everyone at charity: water is.
What is your favorite NYC hangout?
Being a homebody, my favorite NYC hangout is my room. I really enjoy hanging out at home and escaping the busy city lifestyle. When I do venture out, I love to go to the movies!
Fun Fact:
I do not like avocados or coffee.
School: The King’s College
Team: Finance
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
As a student studying Finance, I jumped at the opportunity to take part in charity: water’s unique 100% Model. The Finance department is crucial to maintaining the organization’s core values, and I enjoy taking part in their meaningful work.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
Imagine: excel spreadsheets, tax receipts, and a lot of one-on-one communications with donors. While that may not be most people’s’ idea of a fun day, I love it!
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
The people - I can honestly say the accountants at charity: water are some of the coolest and funniest people I’ve ever met.
What is your favorite NYC hangout?
Brooklyn Promenade
Fun Fact:
When I’m not crunching numbers, I’m shooting pictures. I especially love photographing “urban ruins.” I’ve found and explored abandoned schools, hospitals, prisons, and even a nuclear power plant!
School: Columbia University
Team: Water Programs
Hometown: Myrtle Beach, SC
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I intern for charity: water in order to learn the ins and outs of development programming and to gain this knowledge at an organization whose values align with mine.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
A typical day for me involves scouring through grants to make greater sense out of the data we have collected throughout our extensive program portfolio.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
The exposure and incredible learning opportunity—I feel grateful for having been given the responsibilities and the access to learn so thoroughly about what we do and how we do it. Also, the snacks rock.
What is your favorite NYC hangout?
If I have free time, you can most likely catch me at one of the many music venues throughout Brooklyn.
Fun Fact:
My favorite gif of the moment.
School: Evangel University
Team: People and Culture
Hometown: Jamaica, NY
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I wanted to intern charity: water because from the moment I learned about the organization I could not get it out of my mind. I learned about charity: water while looking for a job and the internship was posted. I had never heard much about the organization before then. I decided to do research about the organization and completely believed in the heart and mission. After watching countless videos and reading various stories I knew I wanted to be a part of this in anyway possible.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
Honestly, a typical day at the office is almost nonexistent. I could be helping with an internal event, running around with a ladder or just assisting Joy Caroline. It all depends on what is the priority at that time.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
My favorite part of interning at charity:water is the people/culture. I have had the opportunity to learn from so many people through conversations and simply watching them work diligently. They are incredibly passionate about their work!
What is your favorite NYC hangout?
I love experiencing new things. Having grown up in NYC it sometimes feels like I have seen most of New York, however I have recently discovered New York looks a lot different than it did when I was a teenager. I often try to spend the weekend doing something new. Right now the highline is one of my favorites.
Fun Fact:
I used to compete in spoken word competitions.
School: Fordham University
Team: Brand Partnerships
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Why did you want to intern at charity: water?
I wanted to intern at charity: water because I have always been a fan of the organization since I originally was introduced to it. I think it is amazing how simple the mission seems, to bring clean and safe drinking water to all people, yet that one cause can affect and touch so many other aspects of the lives that are affected. I specifically feel passionate about the way that women and young girls are impacted by our water projects. They are getting back the time that used to be spent trekking to get water and being able to invest that time into education and even starting small businesses.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
My typical day is always changing! I assist the Brand Partnerships team doing a variety of tasks. It could be anything from responding to emails from prospective corporate partners, to designing one-pagers, to helping compile and construct donor impact reports.
What is your favorite part of interning at charity: water?
My favorite part so far has been the people I get to work with. Everyone is genuinely so nice and ready to help or give advice. Everyone is uplifting and the whole office has a great and overall positive vibe to it. Also, the sparkling water machine in the kitchen is a definite perk.
What is your favorite NYC hangout?
My favorite thing to do in NYC is to try new things! Whether it be trying new restaurants, cuisines, art museums, or music venues, I like to try and switch it up every weekend. Anything that has a great view, rooftop, or is by the water, are also automatic favorites of mine. I love to be outdoors.
Fun Fact:
I am going to be spending my summer in Granada, Spain studying and living with a Spanish family! I don’t speak any Spanish.
Picture this: a world where everyone on Earth has access to clean and safe drinking water; now that’s something to smile about.
At charity: water, we’ve always believed in photography as a powerful vehicle for storytelling. Since day one, we’ve used beautiful images of the places we work and people we serve to tell stories about transformation, hope, and the impact of clean water. So when Aura frames approached us about creating a limited-edition frame that would give clean water to people in need, we were thrilled.
Aura launched the the limited-edition Crystal Blue frame in early 2017. By donating $60 for each frame sold, they generously provided clean and safe drinking water for 600 people in Tigray, Ethiopia. Now they’re ready to help even more.
This year, we’re honored to celebrate Aura re-releasing this beautiful charity: water limited-edition digital picture frame. This time at a lower price, but the same $60 donation to bring clean water to two people for each one sold. They created 750 Crystal Blue frames with the potential to give clean water to 1,500 people.
The sleek and sophisticated Crystal Blue frame was specially designed to make a difference. The color was inspired by the transparency of our 100% model and our shared belief in the impact of clean water. Each limited-edition frame is engraved with the charity: water logo and edition number. Aura will even make sure you never forget the impact of your purchase; every few months, Aura will push a charity: water photo with a corresponding story to your frame to inspire you and help keep you connected to the cause. Download the free app to sort your photos into albums and add an unlimited amount to your wifi-powered frame. Unlike other frames, this one is run 100% from your phone and will automatically add new photos from your camera roll to your frame for a surprise and delight. It’s never been easier to display all of your favorite memories at once.
Aura is reimagining the digital picture frame with innovative technology that will give you something to smile about, and we hope framing your contribution will inspire you to keep fighting for a world where everyone has access to clean water. You can purchase your Crystal Blue frame at auraframes.com/charitywater.
World Water Day is one of our favorite days of the year. It always inspires us to see the way our community floods the Internet with the hope of clean water.
This World Water Day, we introduced people to Nora, a six-year-old who mailed charity: water $8.15 from her piggy bank because she “wanted people to stop dying.” We were so moved by her compassion and generosity that we centered our World Water Day campaign around growing her impact.
The response was awesome. Over 3,600 people joined her in giving and raised enough money to bring clean water to more than 2,500 people in need.
It wasn’t just one-time donations that made this day successful, but also our community of corporate supporters that found unique ways to make a difference. This year, we were thrilled to see the community use their brands to raise awareness and funds for clean water.
Here’s what they did to change lives…
Corkcicle created a limited edition charity: water bottle and donated $8.15 for each one sold. They also surprised every charity: water staff and intern with their own!
1,000 folks made their dentist (and us!) proud by purchasing Quip’s limited edition yellow metallic toothbrush featuring our beloved Jerry Can. They committed to donating $8.15 for each one sold, and even matched that for a total of $16.30 per brush. The best part? They sold out!
InStitchu has a range of (8) suits with custom charity: water lining donating $150 of the proceeds and one navy suit, The Tetbury, where they will be donating $30 of proceeds.
Getty Images and FCB Chicago launched Watermarks for Water, a collection of images that highlight the global water crisis. Getty Images will donate 10% of every licensing fee from the collection of images to charity: water. They also celebrated the launch of this campaign by showcasing some of these photos in a NYC gallery on World Water Day.
Aura launched another limited edition digital picture frame: the Crystal Blue Frame. Aura created 750 of them and will donate $60 for each one sold. They’re engraved with the charity: water logo, and Aura will keep you connected to your impact by sending photos and stories of our work straight to your frame.
Quirky launched a Water Changes Everything invention challenge to inspire people to invent an everyday product that promotes responsible water use. Once the invention is produced and on the market, they’ve committed to donating a portion of the profit to charity: water.
Nautica encouraged their customers to “Give Change to Make Change” for charity: water and generously matched the first $5,000 raised.
Gundry MD used their popular newsletter to share Nora’s story with their fans and directed them to our World Water Day site. The email alone generated 627 donations totaling more than $10,000 and 25 new Spring members.
Clothing company Warp and Weft gave it their all on World Water Day by donating 100% of their proceeds that day to charity: water.
Finally, a special shoutout to our friends that showed us some love on social media to lift this cause a little higher:
WeWork
Blue Bottle
Lemonade
Soma
Cathay Pacific
Amazon Smile & Amazon
CAT Foundation
The Office Group
The Winerist
Mindful in May
Dent Global
Overflow Taps
Smile Generation
Tattly
Interpublic Group
Theory 11
Spredfast
Mira Showers
Depeche Mode
Happy Plugs
Endless thanks to each and every brand that cares about this cause and uses their platform to help more people receive access to clean and safe drinking water!
If you’re interested in partnering with us, please email corporategiving@charitywater.org