I just turned 24. I don’t usually ask for presents, but this year I’ve decided to make an exception. 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.

Did you know that 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. But it doesn't have to be that way. There are simple solutions like drilled wells, spring protections and BioSand filters that help provide clean water to communities around the world.

100% of every dollar you donate to my birthday campaign will be used to build clean water projects in developing countries. charity: water funds their operating costs separately through a group of private donors, so 100% of all public donations will go directly to people in need.

This cause is important to me because, as many of you know, I was born in a third world country during war time. Before I was a year old I got a water-related illness that nearly killed me. I wasn't the only child affected by the poor water sanitation at the time. Projects like this one are well worth it.

Don't buy Starbucks today, put those $3 to $5 dollars towards something that will make a difference. Even better: I challenge you to drinking only water for two weeks and the money that you save from NOT drinking soda, tea, coffee, etc. you can give to someone who just needs a clean cup of water. (Plus you pick up a healthy habit). Donate it here.

Help me make this birthday my best ever -- donate to my campaign!