WATERISLIFE will be at www.dirty30race.com this weekend!
The Dirty 30 Race = 1 Day + 2 Charities (WATERisLIFE) + 5K Run + 7 Tons of Mud + 15 Obstacles. This day is for YOU!
During the race if you need really cold water – visit the WATERisLIFE Booth on Saturday, May 12th at Canyon Creek Ranch in Oklahoma.
CHECK OUT THIS REALLY MUDDY VIDEO!
We are in route back to Nairobi. It is after 7. Dark. And two hours to go. We had the privilege to bring filter systems to Magadi area. It is like walking on the surface of the sun…SMOKING HOT! About an inch of micro fine dust on everything. Walking in it was difficult as you stir up a dust devil with every step, choking the life out all around. The Masai people live in this area. You hear all kinds of stories of the fierceness of the Masai people, our experience is the opposite. The joy and fascination with “munzungu” (foreigners) was humbling to say the least. The water that they drink comes from a hand dug pond that collects rain water when it rains a a VERY rare occasion. It is a giant mud hole they get their drinking water from, and water their goats with.
Tonight we got to witness part of the Masai warrior transition from being a boy to manhood. Very few munzungu get invited in to see this. The men and women had the most ornate bead work I have seen. We built bucket systems and shared our love with them. We left a little piece of out hearts there. Jared will come back with more training and filters in a few days. We are climbing up from the Rift Valley into the coolness of the mountains. I think I have sweated off 10 LBS today. Just another 10 or so to go!
Mark Bender making new friends!
This is 14 year old twins, Yvonne and Mary. These two girls used to live in Kisumu and wound up in Kibera Slum after the death of their only living relative, their grandmother 2 months ago. They have been working at Jared’s office to make some money to eat on. They have been sleeping with no blankets since they started living in Kibera. They live with 5 other children who they are not related to. They prepare food each night for the other children, giving them the only meal for the day. Yvonne and Mary want to go to school. Both desire to be medical doctors. It would cost about $1,000 per year for them go go to boarding school. We are hoping to find some friends in the US to sponsor them to go boarding school and get them out of the ghetto. Pictured is Mark with the girls providing them new blankets that we purchased in the market. You would have thought Mark had given them a million dollars. Needless to say not a dry eye in the house.
Ken Surritte, Founder, WATERisLIFE
Pictured Yvonne, Mary and Mark Bender
CLEAN DRINKING WATER IS A LUXURY. This video is well-worth the 1 1/2 minutes it takes to watch it. The message is compelling and the call to action is simple – check it out!WATERisLIFE.com
ttp://www.fastcoexist.com/1679552/new-yorks-dirtiest-water-now-conveniently-drinkable
On World Water Day, we are inviting people to drink polluted New York City water by installing cup dispensers next to the water source. Each dispenser is filled with an assortment of limited edition WATERisLIFE cups, all designed with global water facts. Drink up New York City!
You have to check out this video and share with friends. On World Water Day, WATERisLIFE is inviting people to drink polluted New York City water by installing cup dispensers next to the water source. Each dispenser is filled with an assortment of limited edition WATERisLIFE cups, all designed with global water facts. Drink up New York City!
http://www.youtube.com/embed/DZhv378TWo4
“This year for my Birthday, I would like to do something for someone else. I really do not need anything………” Certainly wonderful words any parent would be proud of hearing from their soon to be 10 year old. And so for Cayman’s 10th birthday, that’s exactly what she did….something for someone else. She decided that for her 10th birthday party – she would help raise $10 from each guest to bring clean water to children in Haiti. Thank you Cayman, you are making a difference in our world – and we are all proud of your caring heart. You will help save and transform lives! Cayman summed it up so wonderfully, “We felt so good that we saved 30 lives and we had fun doing it. It was the best party I ever had and I think I will do it again next year!” 30 children in our world thank YOU and your friends Cayman – and Happy 10th Birthday Cayman! Cayman is bottom picture, middle.
Check out the WiL Haiti Team’s work and meet some wonderful kids at Grace Mission Orphanage in Limbe, Haiti!
Check out WATERisLIFE on iwearyourshirt.com today! Jason, Diendre, Bimini, Sarah and Sean wearing WATERisLIFE shirt. Join in the conversation today and talk clean water for the world! www.iwearyourshirt.com
Check out video from Sean wearing WATERisLIFE shirt in Detroit!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQHsFJCB420&feature=player_embedded
“There is incredible potential in the relationship we have developed between the Kpaachi Yili School in Northern Ghana and The Odyssey Preparatory Academy in Arizona. I feel blessed to bridge the gap and provide education and resources to teachers and scholars on both ends of the spectrum. I can already see the passion and drive in my students in Arizona to contribute to the basic needs of children just like them on the other side of the world. I look forward to furthering the partnership and using the inspiration of WATERisLIFE as as a catalyst for positive change.”
Ghana Field Notes- Jessica Lusin 2012
ZALI
The church service we attended and Zali Village Meeting place with music and dancing was incredibly powerful. I was astounded by the solid sense of community in Zali. Everyone has a position, a place within the structure. Even with the children there is a hierarchy of privileges, as well as responsibilities. I was very impressed with how willing they were to help their siblings figure out the WATERisLIFE filter straw. After a long and incredibly patient wait, the children were given their WATERisLIFE straws. Many of them were engaged as the filter use was demonstrated, however immediately after having a straw placed around their neck a few kids got cups of water from a bucket and started drinking from the cup. I was shocked, I mean jaw dropping shocked and felt like I took it way too personally, but felt compelled to walk to the child and show them how to drink the H2O through the straw.
The domino effect ensued. Through their beauty, innocence, intuition, and positive spirit children never cease to amaze me. It gave me some peace in my heart to know these children would help each other. They gained a new tool and were willing to use it. It’s not a long term fix, it may not even last them long enough to make a substantial difference, but they are further educated and have clean water today and for up to one year. We will not know what they took from it. The deep ceded tradition of the village may not promise change. However, the strength and conviction in these kids gives me hope that what we are doing makes a positive difference. I am very excited for tomorrow.
SONG from Zali Students
Water Is Life
You are welcome
Our mothers they are welcome you
Our fathers they are welcome you
Children, children
They are welcome you
God bless you for starting the program in our community
This is a song (not the complete lyrics) that was sung by the 4-6 level students in Zali. They had performed it the first day we were in the village, but the 2nd time they did it in the classroom during our handwashing review. As they were singing I experienced full body goosebumps. It was an amazing feeling to have them be so attentive and hang on every word we said. The song was beautiful, and although they may not have even understood what they were saying, the fact that they shared it and were appreciative was incredible. There is a look in many of the children I encountered that is hard to put into words. It is as if I can see them completely with just one glance. All the innocence, compassion, and strength can be found in their eyes and bright smiles. They are so happy, yet simple. To me that is pure beauty.
KPAACHI YILI – Relationships
Authenticity. Integrity. Pure honesty. Positive spirit. True appreciation for life. All of these traits are representative of the Ghanian personality. The social structure is solid. The rules have all been set. Hierarchy established. In a society where cultural values exceed wealth, there is a great weight placed on relationships. We come to these people from the United States offering help. But if we avoid conversation and plow through cultural bounds we destroy our opportunity to develop respect. All of the time consuming procedures and processes that occur in transition like meeting the chief and elders, having a village ceremony, using a translator for educational purposes, chiefs closing remarks, presentation of gifts, etc. All of these things are part of the cultural structure. In order to develop relationships with the people we must embrace and dive into their culture. Our barriers must be down so we can give the Ghanians a chance to open up to us. The first step is the relationship. The next step is water.
I am honored to be a part of a group that has taken the plunge into the culture and lives of beautiful, faithful people. To be recognized as someone who is responsible for helping provide a community with clean water gives me a sense of inner strength I cannot describe. In this short week I have witnessed the development of strong relationships. These are not just business relationships, but personal relationships filled with honesty, integrity, and love. I truly believe I was brought to Ghana for a reason much larger than myself. I can only hope to emulate the Ghanian cultural personality. Recognizing positive spirit and authenticity is where I will start.
St. Charles Borromeo School students, as part of catholic Schools Week, collected funds to send WATERisLIFE filters to Kenya! “We have been doing sustainability labs and exercises to develop not only the science behind clean water, but to develop a personal awareness of their responsibility as stewards of our global environment.” says Michelle Caluda from St. Charles. ”Our 8th grade students delivered very cool WATERisLIFE collection bins to every classroom- PK3 – 8th grade to raise the funds. The students have chosen for their WiL filters to go to students in Kenya.”
Great way to make an impact kids – you ARE making a difference in the lives of other students in Kenya. We will post photos once your filters are delivered to school children in Kisumu, Kenya! As they say in Kenya, Asante Sana - thank you.
The 8th Graders presented to the Early Childhood classes – what a great way to share knowledge, and spread the word about the need for clean water
At WATERisLIFE we offer the opportunity to partner with your own village -we can connect you with one of 288 villages in Northern Ghana, 18 schools in Kenya and one of 33 villages and schools/churches in Haiti. Partnership equals relationships and this is how long term clean water can be brought to the villages to help transform lives. WATERisLIFE can give you the opportunity to provide the following to your village – to bring them clean safe drinking water;
1. WATERisLIFE personal water filters
2. Health and Hygiene Education programs
3. Long term clean water solution
4. Monitoring system to maintain clean water in your village.
A WATERisLIFE team was in Ghana this past week and connected two US partners with villages in the Tolon District. WiL presented the partners to the Village Chiefs – what an opportunity to connect with your own village and see your donation dollars in action and build a relationship that will transform lives – theirs and yours! Please read the Chief of Zali’s Speech which he presented in Dagabani, and is translated below. Once you meet the Chief of your partner village – and discuss how to bring clean water solutions to his people – it will be forever etched in your heart.
“What an incredible experience to visit our adopted village in Ghana! Partnering with the people of Zali to bring water straws and work together on a sustainable solution was life-changing for all of us. To see 1000 people dancing and celebrating our arrival is a moment I will never forget.” – Pastor Nate Schaus, Summit Community Church
Mr. Chairman, representative from the District Assembly, friends from the USA, invited guests, ladies and gentleman. I find it a pleasant Sunday to stand before you to present on behalf of all Chiefs and Elders of Zali and it’s surrounding communities.
In the first place, I want to thank God for making this day possible. Chiefs, as the saying goes that WATERisLIFE which we can all agree with because all living things depend on water for their daily lives. I can also say that Zali is one of the blessing communities because ther are many regions, towns and communities but becuase of God’s caring, he chose Zali for this particular gathering and by the power and sympathy of God, we will get the water from the hands of the WATERisLIFE project.
Mr. Chairman, Sanitation is also one of the areas that the entire community always put their attention on . This comes to reality because when we keep our homes and surroundings clean it will prevent us from contracting some diseases like cholera and others.
Mr. Chairman, the Chief’s, Elders and the entire community have prepared enough to work hard with the project to get safe drinking water for the good people of Zali. This is because women travel long distance to fetch water which is sometimes contaminated by animals.
Chiefs, we can all testify that unsafe water is very dangerous to human health. So when we get clean and safe water it will save the lives of the people of Zali and it’s surrounding communites both near and far. Therefore, it is my hope and prayer that God will guide us to get this water since God is the owner of everything in the universe.
In sum, Mr. Chairman, whatever it will take us with this project to get water, we are in support of that. I want to also appeal to the District Assembly to also assist us and the project whatever we are in need of to make this dream a reality. So, I say God richly bless you for coming here and be with us all “Ni yi tuma pam,” “Naawuni ni son”
WiL Ghana Team will be returning to US soon. The trip was exceptionally productive and highly successful. All team members stayed healthy, enjoyed time in their partner villages – building relationships and bringing clean water to many in need. Team members will not forget the many magical moments with new friends as they enhanced many lives of other human beings this past 10 days. Their contributions have truly enhanced someone else’s life and their gift has made those in Ghana so very happy. Although the team’s kindness was a great gift to many – the team would agree that the gift those in Ghana gave back was far greater. The team delivered true evidence that they have made a difference in the world. It’s only the beginning…
After days in the field the WiL team reflects on some of the key highlights of their work. Each team member was give a small book – FIELD NOTES compliments of www.fieldnotesbrand.com to write stories, highlights and work notes. Congrats to Jess Lusin from Odyssey Preparatory Academy for turning her FIELD NOTES in first!
- The partnership between Zali Village and Summit Church brought the opportunity to distribute 1000 filters, host hygiene clinics in the community of 1000, in each classroom and for a group of Mommas and children in need of guidance. Time with the Chief and Elders was priceless – and realtionships have blossomed. Summit Commuity Church was welcomed back anytime to stay in the village and work side by side with them – they are family. Summit will work to return and rebuild the fencing around the water dugout – to keep the animals from contaminating their water source. This will be the one of the steps in the solution.
- Odyssey Preparatory Academy has partnered wtih Kpaachiyili to help bring 500 filters, host hygiene clinics in each classroom as well as play soccar, learn about their need for books in their library and move forward with the next step to clean water solution.
Both villages have been set up with Community Water Solutions Systems – where women in the village manage the clean water process and distribution. A fantastic water solution to supply clean water at a very small cost – while also creating a small business for the local woman
- Meetings to develop WiL partnerships with Tamale Rotary, Pure Home Water Systems, Community Water Solutions, King’s Village, District Assembly and Chief sessions, Geologist Timothy Boare Geological Round Table, as well as strategic meetings to discuss the value of partnership with each village – 290 – in the Tolon an Kumbungu Districts. With partnership – comunities in the US have the opportunity to support their village with WiL filters, hygiene classes in collaboration with the District WASH program, long term water solutions with local organizations as well as opportunity to create and build lasting relationships with a community in such need of a basic need -clean water. Please check out photos www.facebook.com/joinwaterislife
Thursday morning the team started a bit slow after an evening of fun, and enjoyed breakfast and time at the local markets. The goal of the morning was to open the first WATERisLIFE Ghana office – post office box, banking account and necessities to support the Ghana Projects in the coming months. The WiL team in Ghana is growing, and looking forward to partnerships and strategic plans for the coming three years.
The team dressed in their best Ghana wear and visited the District Executive Chief for a meeting to discuss WiL plans forward. The Chief offered the District Assembly’s full support and offered WiL the opportunity to stay in the villages on our next visit. This is truly an honor, and reflects the support and trust for both parties. The team also met with Mr. Lahnser and the District Health Director, and again was given full support of their team and resources to help develop programs and partnerships to bring clean water to the area.
We had dinner at SWAD with the Federwitz Family, and enjoyed goat, rice, yam fries and local flavor. Hannah, Levi and Eden left a beautiful mark on the team’s hearts, as they are little ones of the Federwitz family and their laughter and sparkle was contagious.
Wed team chose to give up R&R day to visit villages of Zali and Kpaachi Yili again. Team walked damaged and broken fence lines to access the repair costs and work. One of the water dugout fences had been installed 35 years ago and was broken, torn down and grown over with grass. The team will work with village partners to rebuild the fence to keep the cattle and animals from going into the only village water source. The Hygiene team also visited each classroom in the two villages to reinforce the importance of filter use and basic hygiene, and a team gathered village woman and children to teach about Diarrhea prevention and ORS. Such beautiful women who care deeply about their families health – but just need the tools to move the commuity forward.
In the evening – the WiL team presented at the Tamale Rotary Meeting. Pastor Nate Schaus – White Tanks Rotary, presented a Rotary Flag and we presented the WiL Vision for Partnership on projects in the Tolon and Kumbungu Districts in Northern Ghana. The meeting was a wonderful representation of partnership and collaboration to create successful and long term programs to support WASH initatiatives and support clean water programs currently in effect in the area. After a long day, the team enjoyed a few Star Beers and laughter at the Catholic Guest House and told stories of the week into the wee hours
Team spent two 3 days in villages, also had opportunity to visit the King’s Village Facility which provides a school, orphanage nutrition center, medical center, church and community support to surrounding villages in Kumbungu District. Many thanks to Iddrisu WiL Program Coordinator, and those that were such wonderful hosts at King’s Village. It was great to meet The Director, Moses, Terry and Ann – and WiL looks forward to a partnership and return trip to support villages in such dire need of clean water – Gbali and Tollogu. The team also particpated in a tour and program overview at the Pure Home Water Factory. PHW is working on a contract to manufacture 1000 ceramic pot filters for Tamale Rotary. Thank you to Mary Kay Jackson and Susan Murcott – from MIT for their time and willingness to share their passion and a wonderful look into a business that is improving the lives of those needing clean water. Had dinner at the African Touch Restaurant – even if Taxi’s don’t always work – we can manage.
By Chuck Cline
Having a great time in Ghana. Here with a fantastic and hilarious team! It is well said that God has a plan for you. But the thing is, you are God’s plan. This is the reason I go to serve.
We have already distributed over 1500 WiL filters in just two days – along with Hygiene Training Clinics, and we have visited villages that were in desperate need of immediate clean water. It’s His plan in action…I am most sure.
On Monday the WiL Team traveled to the villages of Kurivohoyili and Kpaachiyili. Enroute, the team stopped to deliver fabric to a street seamstresses to sew into a stunning Ghana style dress - the dress was completed by the end of the day. The fabric was a gift from the District Executive Chief on our last visit to the Tolon Kumbungu District. The ladies on the team will deliver more fabric tomorrow to these talented seamstresses, and we promise to post photos of the finish products on www.facebook.com/joinwaterislife .
After viewing the turbid water in the dugout in Kurivohoyili- we were met by a member of the Community Water Solutions NGO organization where we were able to learn abouth their work to create a water filter program managed by women in the village. This system provides clean water for sale for a small amount of pesewas each day. We have discussed a partnership with CWS as the WiL Water Filter will provide a fantastic compliment to their program, specifically for children in the Northern District in Ghana, as this area is one of the most impoverished areas and most in need of clean water in the world.
Once in the village of Kapaachiyil, the team met with the Chief and Elders and the WiL village partner – Odyssey Preparatory Academy representative Jessica , who was presented Koa nuts – a nut that has a high caffeine/energy content and is of high value. She also was given 2 Roosters and bundles of yams – which is customary to show gratitude. A true honor as the village is so grateful for her leadership and help from the school’s students to work to bring clean water to them. Jessica also received a marriage proposal from the Chief! Once Jessica presented the Chief with a WiL water filter – he was so elated that he waived for the drummers and jumped up for joy and began dancing. He invited Jessica to dance with him. Now you must also know, this man is very old and getting up and dancing was not anything that we had expected.
The team walked to the school and another ceremony was awaiting. Once all introductions were completed, and speeches ended, the school students performed a 10 minute drama presentation on Water and Sanitation – the students really understand the importance of clean water and expressed their sincere interest in making the change. Jessica and the Hygiene Team hosted training for students at the school - and the students were mesmerized. Jessica also spent extensive time discussing with the Headmaster the needs of the children and the importance of clean water for his students. It was an exhilerating day of bringing filters to the village of Kpaachiyili – a day the village had been waiting and anticipating for many months. 500 filters were distributed as a gift from Odyssey Preparatory Academy - and each student and child in the village received one. Filters are the first step to long term clean water for this village, and the WiL Water Projects team surveyed the water situation and will be providing direction for a sustainable solution for this area.
The excitement continued into the afternoon - which was filled with an friendly discussion and a traditional meal with WiL Program Coordinator Iddrisu Aziz Boare’s family. We talked and shared stories for quite a long time – a great chance to get to know his family and community. Traditional FuFu, along with Rice and Beef was prepared by Iddrisu’s 12 year old sister, Fati. Dignitaries from the community joined our meal - with a total of nearly 25 enjoying each other’s company over a wonderful authentic meal. Reminder FuFu and all must be eaten with your fingers on your RIGHT hand! Time to sign off – Mosque’s are screaming prayer time as it is dusk. Must respect….
More from the Village of Zali tomorrow – and a summary of our day of meetings with two WiL partner organizations that do work here in Ghana that will inspire and amaze.
While in the Village of Kpaachi Yili
Aplogies to all – this is our first chance to access connection to intenet as our team has been non stop since arrival to Tamale on Saturday morning with our work in the villages. While in the airport in Tamale, I recognized a gentleman in the crowd. He was the Tolon Kumbungu District Executive Chief Iddi Manza. I approached him and introduced myself – he recognized me and confirmed that we were to meet that afternoon. We had met on our last visit to Tamale. What a surprise to run in to him and visit – as he was on the same flight as our team. I showed him our photo together on the ipad and we had a good laugh. It was a great start to our trip. After 11 WiL team members arrived in Tamale, Ghana, we connected with our Ghana Program Coordinator, Iddrisu Aziz Boare. Our team is now twelve. After arrival we moved full steam ahead. Saturday was spent collecting supplies and materials as well as District welcomes and time on cultural and informational meetings. Sunday was an overwhelming, inspiring and touching day. The team delivered 1000 filters to the village in Zali where we were welcomed first by the Chief’s ceremony and then dancing and celebration. It was truly a party like no other. The smiles on the faces of the villagers shone brighter than the sun. The team held a health and hygiene training clinic to over 1000 villagers. From germs to poop, clean water and diarrhea to a community game of hangman – many things were learned by both the villagers and the team. The team was presented gifts from the Chief and villagers – 3 Guinea Fowl, eggs, 3 bunches of yams and a goat. Truly, how does one fit all of this into a 15 passenger van – already carrying 20 passengers – it’s the African way. The WiL team also met with Community Water Solutions Organization, and Tamale Rotary to discuss partnerships to bring clean water to the 270 villages in the Tolon Kumbungu District. One of our amazing moments was when we were invited to sit with the Head Chief of all Chiefs (I am sure that is not his official title.) We were invited into his Palace where we discussed with he and his Elders the future vision of WATERisLIFE in his area. We were presented with Koa nuts – a great cultural moment for the team – and a time of respect, listening and partnership discussions. We also had the distinct honor to host a Geological Round Table with the Deputy Regional Director to discuss the geology of the Voltain Region of Northern Region. All of this in one simple day – the team hit pillows late into the evening with colorful memories from a day of appreciation, hope and opportunity to make an impact in an area in such need. Time running out on computer we will post more later….20 seconds..19..18..17
2011 has been an amazing and inspiring year at WATERisLIFE – filters, hygiene clinics and wells around our world. We must continue our work, and we need you – our generous donors – who believe in making a direct impact with your dollars to help provide clean water in 2012. Please take a few moments and consider partnering with WATERisLIFE in 2012, as your thoughtful gift will drastically change the life of someone next year. Your donation will go directly to provide personal water filters, teach Hygiene Clinics and provide long term, sustainable clean water sources to those in great need. Our work will continue in villages in Ghana, Kenya and Haiti in 2012, as well as distributing filters to countries all over the world.
Each filter donated will provide clean water for up to one year – and in addition, WATERisLIFE works to provide hygiene education and long term clean water sources to transform lives – and communities. Please be inspired to target your end of the year giving to make a direct impact in 2012 – and provide the gift of life.
All Gifts must be postmarked or made online by Dec. 31st to ensure your gift is tax deductible this year.
WATERisLIFE is a 501(c) 3 TAX ID #26-4470550.
Donate online http://www.waterislife.com/about/donations Or mail to:
WATERisLIFE HEADQUARTERS
P. O. Box 7481
Edmond, Oklahoma 73083-7481 .
Thank you for your support and changing lives in 2012 – your donation will truly make a difference in the lives of others.
Ken Surritte, Founder
WATERisLIFE.com
Photo courtesy J.T. Elbracht Photography
by Mark Bender
Can you even imagine spending 4, 5, or even 6 hours a day just to get a drink of water? And knowing you may get sick from that water? I’m sure you’ve heard the story before or seen it on TV – maybe even have seen it first hand. The fact is, the problem is real, water shortages and contamination impact people all over the world.
I consider myself lucky, not only do I have plenty of clean water, I get it whenever I need it. I have been fortunate to participate in several trips to villages, schools and churches in Haiti, Ghana and Kenya. I have seen the impacts of water problems and the impacts of helping them solve those problems.
Traveling to these places and working with them is my passion and calling. I think it’s where I fit into the solution. I thrive on the relationships, helping them develop and implementing the solution and seeing the transformation. I am a hands on type of guy, I like drilling wells, building filtration systems, installing a piping system from a spring, you know, building stuff. Whether its filter distribution or health, hygiene and sanitation training, or developing a long-term sustainable solution, I am making a difference.
I have helped distribute filters in communities being devastated by Cholera and dysentery in Haiti – and seen them live through the epidemic.
I have taught health and hygiene to school kids in Kenya – and see them learning and then teaching their parents.
I have drilled wells and repaired pumps in Kenya and Haiti – and witnessed the community transform.
I have made friends in many parts of the world.
These kinds of things are not for everybody, but… Where do you fit in? Give that question some thought. It’s not always easy to answer. The good news is there is no right or wrong answer – except to do nothing. The 30.THiRTY project is an excellent opportunity to do something.
The WateisLife $30 in thirty days - 30. THiRTY project provides an opportunity for people like me and you, to help those far less fortunate than us. These donations will go directly to specific villages in Haiti, Ghana and Kenya in 2012. Where do you fit in next year?
Ryan Jimison, Mark Ziegentuss, Jane Delong, Michael Terry, Ken Surritte, Lynne French, Bagley Media, Adrienne Skillern, Jenny Cline, Becky White, Debra Clark, John Martin, Jennifer Johnson, Penny Tilley, Pam Ittner, Robert Poreda, Linda Freeman, Donald Wilson, Jackie VanDyke, Shelly Hornback, Kim Bellingrath, Michelle Simpkins, Adriana Sandoval, Stphanie Whitley, Jordan and Kyle Gingg, Zach Sikes, Jason Sanders, Nate Schaus, Robert Henshaw, Deb Clements, viagra Fine, Tyler Hayes, Dale Surritte, Peter Tinsley, Lisa and KC Gingg…and you?
This is Maureene Adhiambo. Maureene lives in Kidiju, Kenya – near Kisumu. Her mother has died, and she is now living with her Aunt Gaudencia where she is helping to care for 7 children. She has dreams of being a journalist one day.
Maureen spends a majority of her day cooking and fetching water from a bore hole. The borehole is not sealed or covered. As she pulls the water out of the hole with her rope – I can see the muscles in her upper body tighten. When the bore hole dries up she fetches water from a pond – which is also for the cattle that roam in and out of the body of water.
Maureen has written an oral narrative in my journal – very thoughtful, inspiring with deep meaning and song. The story is a metaphor using gardens and flowers – as it relates to the continuous spread of AIDS.
She longs to continue her education and be a television journalist. To give Maureen the opportunity to achieve this dream – we must bring clean water to her and her village. The water in the bore hole is contaminated and carries bacteria which can cause sickness and disease.
This young woman has strength, determination, humor, and intelligence. She is bold in what she stands for. We want to give her that chance to be the woman of her dreams.
With your $30. THiRTY donation – we can help bring clean water to many young people that have dreams and hopes for their future…one by one.
Please take a few minutes and donate your $30. You can change a life next year. Maybe it’s Maureen’s. http://www.waterislife.com/about/donations
Donate $30 in THiRTY days - December 1 thru December 30 - to raise $100,000 to bring clean drinking water to villages in desperate need. When 3,333 people (yes, one is you) donate $30 in the next THiRTY days, we will directly make an impact, save lives and transform villages in Kenya, Ghana and Haiti in 2012.
With your end of the year donation – together we will raise $100,000 to provide clean water to villages in 2012.
100% of donations go directly to the field & provide clean water solutions. WATERisLIFE will bring clean water to schools & villages to save and transform lives in 2012 – an investment worth making!
DONATE TODAY http://www.waterislife.com/about/donations
$30 in THiRTY Days. Make your donation & watch your dollars in direct action!
Photos courtesy J.T. Elbracht Photograpy
Her name is Mayline, and she is an orphan….
Our team in Haiti had just finished grinding corn that would be given to the poor in Limbe on Sunday. Six-year-old Mayline had gathered up some ground corn that had spilled out of the bags and onto the ground. She took her little bag of corn over to a mud puddle and began mixing a handful of corn with water from the mud puddle. While she was mixing I asked her what she was making, she replied “cornbread”.
After grinding the corn we had returned to our project of well drilling in the compound. Later that day, Mayline came up to me and asked if I was hungry and if I wanted some food. She then reached into her little bag and pulled out a handful of…well…cornbread. I humbly accepted.
We go into the field with the hope of transforming communities with our gift of clean water solutions and wherever there is need we sacrifice ourselves. But throughout this process we receive so much more than we give. And in the end it is I who am truly being transformed. – Chuck Cline, WiL Volunteer
I knew I was called to go to Haiti. From the moment WATERisLIFE talked to me about the trip, I felt that internal calling to be a part of a mission to serve God by serving others. Most of our team for week 2 came from the Church I attend, Summit. The mission was to provide water for the Grace Missions Barkman Center, in Limbe, so they could construct an Elderly Care Home more efficiently.
We laid out our tools and equipment, and over the next week we worked hard to provide water using manual well digging equipment. We hit challenges, and overcame obstacles as we served.
Our team hit an aquafer right next to where the workers were staging concrete to build the elderly care center…a perfect place! We built a hand pump, installed it, and instantly: lives changed.
Instead of having to travel further to gather a little bit of water, the workers could instead pump out water right next to where they were mixing concrete for the foundation to this building. Mark Bender, WiL Director of Water Programs, stayed over for week 3, and he said that thousands of gallons of water flowed from that aquifer.
For a short video look at what Waterislife Haiti Week 2 accomplished, please take a look at the video below (via Summit Community Church’s Youtube). Next year, I can’t wait to see that building, and the lives that are being changed there.
Has anyone ever stopped to take a single moment out of their life to think about what water really is?
Besides it being a molecule that contains one oxygen and two hydrogen atoms connected by covalent bonds, lets think about how we use it in our daily lives. Like for instance, yesterday I got up and brushed my teeth (water), used the restroom (water), made some breakfast (water), started a load of laundry (water), and did the dishes (water). Now that is just one typical morning and I used the resource of (water) over 5 times, but more importantly the most critical (water) source was that I was able to get up and drink a clean glass of water.
Did you know that water covers 70.9% of the Earth’s surface and it is vital for ALL known forms of LIFE? Safe drinking water is essential for all humans and other life forms.
After working with WATERisLIFE I have been thinking how crucial it is to have clean water. Even though clean water has improved and is more prevalent over the last couple of decades we forget about those who are still suffering. There are still over 1 billion people who lack clean drinking water and over 2.5 billion who lack access to sanitation.
With the vision of WATERisLIFE there is HOPE, by reaching out to those in destitute conditions and distributing filtration straws and drilling wells allowing them to have clean running water.
I have a hard time thinking what I can do for WATERisLIFE, I feel so small to tackle so much suffering but all it takes is one heart and one choice to help those in need. Whether it’s choosing to simply cut out StarBucks each week and instead putting that money towards WIL so that they may be able to buy more equipment for the wells would be a good start. Or choose to volunteer my free time to help raise money for the organization, or choose to donate one straw or 10,000 straws there is always something I CAN DO TO HELP. The most important thing that I have to remember is that choosing to sacrifice something big or small, I am still making a DIFFERENCE in others lives.
John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.”
When I was in Haiti for two months with a WATERisLIFE field team, there were many things I got to experience. While I was there, I learned so much about the culture and people of Haiti and made many friends. During my stay I remember a hand dug water well that was near our home, and it was covered with a piece of broken plywood – it was contaminated and kids, just like me, were getting sick. At that moment I thought to myself, “That is why I am here. I am not here to say I went to Haiti; I am not here just to come and visit. I was here to make a difference.”
And that is what I did.
I went to Haiti not really sure what to expect. But once I arrived, I met the kids at the orphanage, went to villages to do hygiene clinics, and we passed out 1000s of WiL filters, and we fit right in.
I know that I left Haiti a new person and ready to help more people, so I will continue working with WATERisLIFE, and help bring clean water to children – just like me – all over the world. – Livvie B., 12 years old
This just in from Mocha Club group that went to Kenya and distributed filters.
It is hard for me to believe that coming up on three years ago, I was bitten by a little old spider in Africa and it would cause my world to go upside down.
I had the opportunity to talk to some of the GREAT folks at The Oklahoma Blood Institute recently and recount my story to them. Here is the short version. Bit by a spider on my way home from Kenya. Being the macho man that I am I totally ignored it. (I hate to admit it but I didn’t realize I had been bitten. The bite is in the small of my back. Not a place I go looking at in the mirror. For those of you, like me, 50 and above will totally understand that. HA) Anyway, after getting back to the US, my back was sore. I figured just an old dude and a bad back…little did I know IT had begun to grow. Started out small, notice a small bump in the small of my back, more pain and discomfort as it began to take on a life of its own. By the time I wised up to seek medical help, it was golf ball sized. By the time I made my first ER visit it was the size of a tennis ball. Next ER visit IT had grown more and that is when my lovely wife and my Doc (Dr. Jerry Childs-MY HERO!) decided that I should not return home. Wise decision. I don’t remember much after that until about week later. Dr. Jerry and team have to breath life back into me, rush me up for emergency surgery and remove a massive hunk out of my back. Several units of blood from the folks at OBI literally saved my life!
I spent a week in the hospital. (I remember only the last 15 minutes, so should I have to pay for the rest of the stay? Hospital didn’t buy my excuse either, they made me cough up the money.) I spent the next 6 weeks on IV antibiotics to combat MRSA. A NASTY thing you pick up in hospitals these days. After about three months of Wound Care from some of the best folks at Baptist Hospital in OKC I was declared OK! the giant crater in my back was filling in nicely from the wound vac that they put in me. SPOILER ALERT-WARNING if you are easily grossed out skip to next paragraph. (Wound Vac a sponge in the hole, a tube from the sponge to the vacuum that sucks the tissue so you grow back from the inside out. Sounds gross and believe me it is pretty gross looking at a giant hole in your back. This is then all shrink wrapped and sealed up so that you have continues negative pressure pulling the tissue inside you to the surface.)
I won’t be wearing any speedo’s again for sure…not just the hole in my back, I would look like an egg with a rubber band around the middle. It looks like someone took a 9 iron or sand wedge and took a nice little divot out of the small of my back.
All that said, I am so thankful to each of you who prayed for me, sent cards, and even dared to scrub up, gown up and come by the hospital (SIDE NOTE: I have no memory of ANYONE coming to see me-my girls tell me I was really crazy…as in crazier than most days. If I said anything to embarrass you I apologize. If I mooned you with my great hospital gown I am really so sorry, I know you will be scared for life.)
All that said, I can’t give blood because of the places I travel. You can! See my friends at OBI, tell them Ken with the spider bite sent ya! Mine is a life saved because someone paid it forward by giving blood. Please consider being a donor.
Thanks again for all the support and encouragement.
Here is a pic of me and some the children at an orphanage in Haiti we just drilled a well for. I am wearing my “I am ALIVE” because of a blood donor t-shirt!
Thank you to the Owasso Team for making a difference in our world this week! Your commitment and determination to help others is greatly appreciated. Hope to see you on another WiL adventure again!
The final WATERisLIFE Haiti teams are departing Haiti tomorrow. Two wells have been drilled, WiL filters distributed, friendships formed – and a future vision to help 36 communities in Northern and Central Haiti in partnerships with Grace Missions. The teams were led by WiL Director of Water Programs, Mark Bender – with many support staff and volunteers working hard toward a project of sustainability and hope. Thank you to Eugene Enns and all in support of Grace Missions, Paul and Belle Romeus, Ray and Bonnie Vanslyke and family, The Gingg Family, Buckeye Police Department, Freedom Church in Owasso, OK, WATERisLIFE Volunteer Staff Chuck and Jenny Cline and all the volunteers that sacrificed their time and support to make this trip possible. Next Haiti project already in the planning!
Three weeks of teams will depart this month traveling to Haiti to drill wells. Thanks to all that are making this fantastic and life-changing drill project move forward.
It is a sacrifice of your time, your spirit, your resources, your families and your heart. We are all grateful for your help in transforming other’s lives – which will truly change our world.
Teams Two and Three: Linda, Mark B, Chuck, KC and Lisa, Ryan, Mark M, Ken, JT, Allen, Tom, Jerry, Randy and Mike!
Special thanks and our appreciation to Grace Missions for inviting us to partner with them on this important initiative; Eugene, Paul and Belle, Ray and Bonnie.
Haiti Team One is ready to deploy to Cap Haitian, Haiti at sunrise. Supplies and gear have been weighed in and will be loaded soon.
As a part of the continued Haiti Water Relief program – Water wells will be drilled with a new drill kit – http://www.water4.org – which will bring clean water to thousands in the Limbe and Acul areas. This past year WATERisLIFE has delivered thousands of water filters and provided Health and Hygiene Clinics in 12 villages in Haiti. This is the next step for these areas – a sustainable water solution. WATERisLIFE will continue working to provide this three step program to 24 additional areas in northern and central Haiti; filters, hygiene education and long term clean water solutions – this is how we can help transform these 36 areas in need in Haiti.
Follow the journey to bring clean water to Haiti – http://www.facebook.com/joinwaterislife
OKC team leaves in the morning carrying WATERisLIFE filters for distribution in remote area of Myanmar. This is a follow up from a team that went last year for 2 months backpacking through the remote villages. Pics will follow.
If you have a minute take a look at the special on WiL on the TV show Found Causes.
Found Causes Episode 03 from DALE EPPERSON on Vimeo.
Wednesday, May 18th is WATERisLIFE “I WEAR YOUR SHIRT DAY!
Check them out by visiting;
http://www.iwearyourshirt.com
Every day they do live shows wearing that day’s shirt and talking about that company/person/product. Tune in at 2:00pm EST each and every day and chat with them about the shirt they are wearing and find out what’s going on in their lives.
Watch tomorrow and find out how you can donate WATERisLIFE filters and DOUBLE your donation! Also sign the filters with a personal message to take to a village of your choice!
WHEN TO WATCH
2:00 (EST) Neal Brooks
2:30 (EST) Amber Plaster
3:00 (EST) Jason Sadler
4:00 (EST) DeAndre Upshaw
4:30 (EST) Angela Seales
See Jason’s Promo Video here!
I recently spoke to an awesome group of Oklahoma State University students who are a part of Engineers Without Boarders. They have just returned from Honduras and have had great success with helping them to build bio sand filter systems. Check out their video!
Dear WATERisLIFE;
Our Brownie Troop is very aware of the devastation in Japan. They really wanted to help Japan and each of our 14 girls have donated $10 worth of their cookie sale troop proceeds to help Japanese children who need clean drinking water. Our girls have made a poster to hang at school to get the word out to everyone for help.
WATERisLIFE and MODERN REPUBLIC introduce the WiL Collection for WORLD WATER DAY. Everyday water related diseases claim the lives of 5000 children under the age of five. What can be done to change that staggering statistic? This jewelry line has been designed for WATERisLIFE by Modern Republic and together we are taking on the global water crisis and working everyday to change the fate of these children.
Each item purchased from this collection will provide one water straw to a child in need.
Today 1.1 billion people do not have access to clean drinking water and 1.8 million people will die this year due to waterborne diseases – Typhoid, Cholera, Dysentery and Diarrhea.
Show your WATERisLIFE support and visit www.modernrepublic.etsy.com to see which pieces are the must haves to hang around your neck or carry as part of your life’s keys!
At least 350 people are dead and hundreds missing after a tsunami caused by a huge 8.9-magnitude quake devastated north-east Japan. WATERisLIFE is working with Senator Inhofe’s (OK) office to bring thousands of personal water filters to Japan to provide immediate clean water needs.
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO RAISE THE FUNDING TO SEND FILTERS NOW. The filters will be directed by current aid programs being initiated by International Relief and Development office and USAID.
Please join us and make a donation – and help those in dire need of basic clean water over the next few weeks. http:/www.waterislife.com/about/donations/
WATERisLIFE FILTER DISTRIBUTION IN SOUTH SUDAN THIS WEEK!
Recent Comments