This year, instead of the regular gifts and wining and dining, I’m celebrating my birthday by raising money for an incredible nonprofit I’ve been learning about called charity: water. My goal is to raise $1000 towards charity: water by this Sunday, April 21st, and I’m reaching out because I’d love your help!

Why clean water, of all causes?

663 million people lack access to clean water today. I was amazed to learn the impact that access to clean water has on communities – not only does it improve health, but it also boosts local economies, empowers women, and gives kids more time in school by freeing up women and children from walking countless hours for water every day.

Why charity: water?

Charity: water tackles the water crisis by working with local experts and community members to build sustainable solutions like wells, BioSand filters, and rainwater harvesting systems. And they do things the right way:

- 100% of the money donated goes to fund clean water projects, since operating costs are funded by private donors through a separate account.

- When a campaign is done, charity: water sends photos and GPS coordinates of the projects so we can see the exact community we helped. Transparency is key.

So what’s with the snorkeling gear, Tali?

My goal is to raise $1000 towards charity: water by my birthday, 4/21. And I’m making you a deal: if we can raise $1k by Sunday, I’ll celebrate the awesomeness of water by wearing full snorkeling gear everywhere I go the next day! Yup, I’ll be showing up to work on Monday in flippers and rockin’ a swim cap to CrossFit.

On a serious note, nothing would make me happier than starting this next year of my life by bringing my friends and family together through a big act of generosity. If this has at all resonated with you, please donate what you can to my campaign. Thank you for your help!

And yes, I’ve already warned my friends that I‘ll be paying for my own drinks this weekend 😉