So my birthday is almost here (Oct 12). I'm not usually excited about getting older, but this year I'm really thankful to have lived another happy, healthy year. So I'm celebrating my birthday differently. I don't want presents, drinks, or anything. I just want you to help me give the gift of clean water to people who desperately need it.

I’m asking all my friends and family to donate to charity: water and give clean water to people who need it, instead of giving me gifts.

Almost a billion people on the planet don’t have access to clean drinking water. Every day, 5,000 kids die from water-related illnesses before they reach their fifth birthday. Also, more people die from lack of clean water and sanitation each year than are killed by all forms of violence, including war. Your donation will help change that because there are simple solutions like drilled wells, spring protections and BioSand filters that help provide clean water to communities around the world.

I'm asking for my age in dollars from everyone I know. I'm turning 24 years old and instead of asking for gifts, I'm asking for $24, $240 or anything you can offer.

The best part is that EVERY PENNY of the money raised will directly fund clean water projects in developing countries. Even better, charity: water will show us exactly which projects we funded once they've been fully completed. That means we'll know the locations and names of the communities we helped.

Please join me and help me reach my goal and donate to my birthday campaign!