This year I'm celebrating my birthday differently. I don't want presents, cards or drinks. I want clean water. :)

Women and children around the world walk hours every day to collect water for their families. And the worst part? The water they collect can be full of harmful bacteria. $20 can give a person access clean water to drink for the rest of their life. Just think of your life without clean running water? Or how many times you've spent over 5$ for something at Starbucks- or a dollar on any drink. Any dollar can help provide clean water to those in need. The average goal is $1,000, which will supply a village of 50 with water for life! but I know my friends and family incredibly above average and I'm excited to see what we all can do to help.

Did you know?
That clean water projects that are built near schools significantly increase class attendance especially in girls?

That more people die from lack of clean water and sanitation each year than are killed by all forms of violence, including war?

That diarrheal disease caused by unsafe water is the second leading killer of children worldwide? (It’s the first in sub-Saharan Africa.)

That communities choose a small group of people to oversee each completed charity: water project. We encourage them to include equal numbers of men and women. These Water Committees are often the first chance women have to take on elected official roles?

Not to mention how access will allow more time improving income and education (especially for women), more reliable access to gardens and food, while improving the local economy!

What are we waiting for!? Let's lend a helping hand (with a healthy glass of water in it!)

The best part is that 100% of the money we raise will directly fund water projects around the world, and when those projects are complete, charity: water will send us photos and GPS coordinates so we can see the impact we made. I can't think of a better birthday gift!! Nearly 800 million people around the world are living with no access to clean water. Please help me on my path for clean water and make this the best birthday ever!

Xox,
Kelsea