As we get older our birthdays become less about the presents and more about the celebration. Many of us don't exchange gifts with friends but receive money or gifts from our parents and relatives. We are well aware of the overemphasis on material needs in our society, but never dare spurn the gift exchange at christmas or valentine's day. I realize that I have everything I need and there is nothing I could want that wouldn't be overindulgent, so this year I am donating my birthday to charity. Instead of money or gifts I'm asking that people donate my age (22) in dollars to this amazing charity. Unsafe water and lack of basic sanitation cause 80% of diseases and kill more people every year than all forms of violence, including war. charity: water uses 100% of donations for direct project costs. Staff salaries and other expenses are paid by a group of private donors, so every penny of your money goes to people in need.