I love hearing the stories coming from the villages that Lifewater has helped! Stories of not only clean water & clean living, & all the peace & strength those basic life necessities have brought to the people, but also the way the Gospel has been shared & received. Lives are being saved both physically & spiritually through Lifewater International!
Lifewater holds itself to the highest standard, programmatically, developmentally, and operationally. The organization stands as an example to other Nonprofits for how this kind of work should be done!
As an engineer, delivering sustainable solutions to a global problem is a key factor when I'm deciding where to invest my money. Far too often we see American NGOs providing short-term fixes that don't last, but when researching organizations addressing the global water crisis, I found Lifewater's model to be the best. They make a three-year commitment to a district and ensure all residents are aware of sanitation and hygiene practices before safe water is flowing, mitigating the risk of cross-contamination. Lifewater empowers the community to be 100% self-sufficient by partnering with village leaders, schools, and church volunteers, supporting the formation of community water committees to maintain the wells after Lifewater has completed their projects. As a consumer, I am confident my donations are bringing the highest quality and most cost-effective solutions. And as a humanitarian, I am pleased to know beneficiaries of my donations are uplifted and empowered with dignity and love.
I first learned about Life Water International in 2018 while researching various charities that provided safe water to communities overseas. Though I was able to find several good non-profit groups with similar programs, Life Water really stood out because of their faith based approach to serving people and the awesome representative "Sean" that I spoke to on the phone when I reached out to this organization. He made plans to have lunch with me in my city because with his travels, he was going to be just a few hours away one particular week. That single meeting answered all of my questions about the work, the culture, and the dedication that Life Water has as a group.
To make a long story short, within 12 months after that, I helped to fund a water well project, took a trip to Ethiopia with a Life Water team, and officially added a fund raising program to my own non-profit organization which has now funded a 2nd water well project. I have encouraged friends and family to join us in funding at least one new water project per year and that is our goal moving forward. I'm truly grateful to Sean, Darren, Christine and now Kara for what they do for the many communities that need access to safe water!
Looking forward to bring some future sponsors on the next vision trip!!
- Terrence T.
My wife and I were looking for a Christian charity to support water projects in Africa. After much research we chose Lifewater because of their superior charity ratings and goals of bringing safe water to African villages and spreading the gospel. We are consistently informed on how the projects we have supported are progressing. Lifewater also does a great job with us having a personal contact at the charity.
Lifewater international has transformed how I view what it means to help/serve people. Growing up when weekend long highschool "mission trips" were all the rage and believing that teaching people how to be more "western" would help them live better lives (although this was unconcious and done with the best intentions, I would leave communities with more harm than good), Lifewater has both humbled and challenged me, as I have learned that the process of helping people should be dignifying, and that sustainability is key in creating generational change. Lifewater not only approaches the communities they serve with practical solutions, but also with relational care and education.
I've partnered with Lifewater for over a year now. Lifewater International is truly an amazing organization. Their mission is to provide safe water for every child, a healthy home for every family and the love of Christ for all. The team at Lifewater is unlike any other that I've partnered with before. You can trust that your gift will be used to help transform the lives of others in the most efficient ways possible. I didn't realize it, but this organization has been around for over 45 years and has impacted so many. Please consider partnering with them and making a true difference.
This is the third year we have partnered with Lifewater and we couldn't be more satisfied with each and one of the projects we have supported. We appreciate the sustainable approach and technical expertise they provide in field. Lifewater is changing thousands of lives in East Africa and Southeast Asia. We are grateful to be a part of the work you guys are doing. - Mite Team (https://mite.org)
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Our nonprofit eMite.org worked with Lifewater International to fund a well in the village of Gola Chefe, Ethiopia. Lifewater staff was extremely professional and helped us through the entire process. They arranged for us to go infield on a Vision Trip, and it was amazing to see the efficiency of their organization.
Ultimately one of our favorite partner organizations. Highly suggest!
Lifewater is a unique nonprofit organization. Not only do they help communities throughout the world by education and tangible resources to access clean water but their way of spreading the Gospel in and outside the organization inspires us all!!
I discovered Lifewater while on the hunt for a new opportunity. I quickly fell in love with the people, their passion and genuine Christ-like spirit! What really impresses me about Lifewater is the overall development model! The goal of creating everlasting change by embracing the communities they serve is not an easy feat! As someone who’s worked in technology for 20 years, I understand the importance of buy-in, bringing folks along with you during the entire journey, and falling in love with the problem you’re trying to solve. I was fascinated by all of the amazing future, current and past successes that truly impact lives for the better. I am honored to help support Lifewater in bringing clean water and sanitation practices to those in need.
Lifewater is all about safe water, hygiene, and sanitation. Basic essentials for healthy children and families the world around.
Beginning in the late 1980’s we started as givers to the work of Lifewater. In the mid-2000’s we became volunteers and trainers with Lifewater. Thus, we have known and been associated with Lifewater International for the last 30 plus years. A lot has changed in Lifewater over that time.
In the late 2000’s Lifewater took on a new look, a new direction. Lifewater reinvented itself from a capable mostly volunteer body into a well-managed highly effective organization serving communities through local indigenous staff. That is big! Working through local trained professionals Lifewater can now partner to grow the Vision of a Healthy Village. This has been a major step forward to effectively serve vulnerable children and families by partnering with underserved communities to overcome water poverty.
We are excited to continue supporting Lifewater in its mission to walk alongside families, leaders, schools, health facilities, and churches to overcome all forms of water poverty. We have been fortunate over the period of 2003 to 2016 to have spent one to two months annually in several east African countries. Most frequently we have lived for several months at a time in Ethiopia and can attest to the power of accomplishing mission work through local indigenous people as Lifewater does now.
We thoroughly endorse Lifewater as a charitable Christian organization run with utmost integrity, effectively serving rural communities in need of basic safe water, hygiene and sanitation. Lifewater is a key player in working to overcome all forms of water poverty by helping all people learn to live in healthy relationship with God and the environment and to recognize how small changes can transform their life and community.
LifeWater consistently exhibits a high level of stewardship and a commitment to bring safe, clean water to people in need and share the good news of Jesus. My family has partnered with LifeWater in its mission for nearly ten years. Throughout, the LifeWater staff has been diligent in keeping us informed about where capital is being used and its impact. Their level of care and communication is really next level! We are particularly excited to see how LifeWater's Health Village framework has been leveraged to change the lives of thousands in Uganda and Ethiopia. We strongly believe in this mission and expect to see more fruit harvested in years ahead.
During the 2020 COVID Lockdown season I was wrestling with how to make wise use of my time and decided to research and choose a strategic kingdom building mission to begin getting more actively involved with... When I came across Lifewater and their practical yet life-changing approach to bringing clean water, hygiene, and the love of the Lord to 3rd world countries, I was instantly hooked! I've had a wonderful experience becoming a volunteer ambassador for about a year now, and also honored to have joined their Presidents Club of donors two years in a row. Jim Evans has been such a pleasure to work with in teaching me how to raise funds and awareness, and I'm super excited to see what God has in store for all involved through 2021 and beyond. If you're considering a strategic mission organization with incredible ROI, I'd highly recommend you consider the folks here at Lifewater!
Merle Miller/Volunteer Ambassador
My husband and I were looking for an organization to donate to that was in the business of bringing clean water to various places in need around the globe. Our intention was to use a portion of the proceeds from our business to use as our ongoing donations. Since we were using the proceeds from our company, we also wanted the organization to be one that our customers could feel good about being a part of as well.
We did alot of research and the organization that rose above all others, on every front was Lifewater.org. From their approach, mission, and vision to the percentage of donations that go directly to the efforts of helping people.
I love how they have made us really feel apart of the organization and the wonderful updates we get about what our doantions are helping them to accomplish.
Ron & Carol Modrak
We have supported Life Water for some years and have found them to be very responsive keeping their donors informed. Their results from their ministry have been outstanding.
My husband and I have worked in development projects in a variety of countries (Guatemala, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Peru and Indonesia) for many years and one of the key interventions that we have seen impact lives - and especially the lives of women and girls - are projects that provide clean, accessible water. Women and girls often expend enormous amounts of energy collecting water from distant sources. This means that their bodies do not get to use all their scarce nutrients for growth and development but just to survive. Additionally, girls who have to fetch water, often do not have time to go to school. And finally, the whole family suffers from water borne illnesses when the water supply is contaminated.
The work that Lifewater does makes a HUGE difference in the health and well being of women and children and villages. With the added spiritual component, lives are truly changed at all levels! Keep up the great work!
We like everything Lifewater stands for, from creating clean water opportunities in needy villages, to ensuring that those water resources are locally maintained and managed. We also believe that the all encompassing concept of the healthy village, including healthy homes, schools, and churches, helps to further the positive results of the clean water resources. The fact that Lifewater is a Christian organization that shares the Word with the people it serves is important to us. On a personal level, it is wonderful to receive calls and emails thanking us when we donate. Lifewater is an amazing organization that we are honored to be able to assist.
Lifewater International is making a positive difference in the world!
Our journey as supporters of Lifewater began when our family received a financial gift and we wanted to pass it on to a worthy Christian ministry. Believing water to be such a basic, yet critical need that touches all aspects of life, we began searching the internet for well-drilling ministries. When we came across Lifewater International we were very impressed by the holistic approach and the long term vision they have in meeting this need. They are definitely not a "just drill a well and leave" type of organization.
We were drawn to their commitment of creating healthy villages with successful hygiene practices, that the communities themselves are invested and have responsibilities for the projects, the high sustainability rate, and most of all that the work is done under the umbrella of the love of Jesus so that physical and spiritual needs are both being met.
The representative we have worked with has been very personable and always a great help in answering our questions and keeping us informed.
We believe that Lifewater International is a high quality Christian organization bringing lasting change to people in vulnerable places of our world through clean water, God's love, and so much more, and we are thankful to help support their ministry.
We first came across Lifewater about 2 years ago researching water wells. From the very first phone call they have been amazing to work with as we implemented a corporate charity into our service business. They were never pushy but always supportive and responsive as we listened to Gods prompting. It became clear this was a great fit for our company. They have even helped us with graphics to import into designs for postcards and implement promotional strategies for social media giving campaigns. I also love the high makes on Charity Navigator and Guide Star. The personal portal on our website makes it easy to see the fund grow and thank donors personally. I would highly recommend to any individual or company that has a heart to give to contact Lifewater today and just have a conversation about how God can use you to help those in need. Brian R. Bock President Bock's Steam Star Inc.
I lived in Kenya for over 6 months. While I was there, I learned from local people that water was the most important need among all the other needs. I researched many organizations that helped provide clean water to people in Africa. I found Lifewater International. They checked off all the needs that I was looking for in an orgainzation, from a detailed methodical approach to showing the love of Christ in the process. I know that my donations go to a great and reputable organization.
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I spent 6 months living in Kenya. While I was there I found that the need for water was the most dire of all other needs. While working in Kenya, I saw many mishandled and disorganized NGO's working in Africa. So, finding an organization that I could trust was crucial.
When I moved back to the US, I wanted to find an organization that I could donate towards and know that they would serve people with the Love of Christ in all that they do. I found Lifewater. They have a methodical and quantifiable process to supply water to villages in Africa while giving their recipients love through education and ownership of the project. I would highly recommend this organization to anyone looking to help communities gain access to clean and abundant water.
I came across Lifewater International thanks to eMite ORG, before this my knowledge about this type of organizations was almost none, but the opportunity to make the travel and get to know these projects came upon me. The experience totally exceeded my expectations, I mean I find couldn't even think about really how was it gonna be, just had these few insights and basic knowledge about what LFI and their mission has to give for this people.
I can say I´ve witnessed a different kind of action being taken, this organization is truly dedicated to it´s mission and to the communities, not just to help on the actual need, but indeed pump up this communities with new and better opportunities. The hole crew encharge of the duty was really exceptional, not just in how the´ve treated us but also in the way they carry on their mission. The hole trip was indeed a life changing experience for me, I´ve got to know a different reality that it´s still happening every day, but thanks to people who care, and not just for the say, this is changing, communities in need are being heard and supported.
Lifewater has a great human quality professionals, not just talking about their projects but also in hearing and talking with the people, regular people just like us, who have our own inquiries and doubts, they carry on the gospel mission with truly passion and hope.
Thanks LifeWater International for the incredible experience!
PD: I leave you the video I´ve made of the experience so that you have a glance of what it is.
How much of your donation really gets to those you’re trying to help? How much of that money is paying some CEO’s salary & annual bonus versus the intended cause? How effective & efficient is the charity I am supporting? If I donate finances or services to provide a positive impact, will it be long lasting or short lived? Will my supported charity faithfully and ethically walk the talk? Are the eyes, hands and hearts of this charity Christ centered?
These questions are just a few of the reasons I feel it is important to research any charity organization before supporting them. The answers I discovered in my research are the reasons I confidently chose, support and strongly advocate supporting Lifewater International. Lifewater International is a caring organization that provides clean safe water sources and sanitation facilities globally.
Lifewater required only 12%~14% for administrative expenses over the last few consecutive years. This indicates to me they are truly dedicated to the cause and purpose of their charitable mission. I think most people would be shocked to learn how many well-known large charities utilize anywhere from 45%-65% on administrative expenses alone.
Additionally, Lifewater International fundraising expenses were in the 9% ~ 13% range of the last few years. This is really impressive to me personally when you consider they have successfully increased donations growth more than 212% in just the last 3 years. Obtaining this level of successful return on funds invested requires extremely effective and strategic use of funds. The by-product of this success allows the majority of donated funds to be applied directly to the cause we desire to support. That’s the goal, right?
The way Lifewater has implemented its procedures and guidelines for establishing and maintaining the processes and equipment put in place at each location insure long lasting successful sustainability for all benefactors involved. Lifewater also monitors and tracks each location for 5 years after completion for each project to insure a long lasting established system is in place. This company is heavily data driven from measurement matrix analysis and success rates. All resources required for maintenance or replacement are available locally and maintained by trained locals that are not only part of the program, but also one of the benefactors of successful management of the program.
Lifewater is also Christ centered and they serve those in need with a God given Christian heart. The gospel is introduced and shared with all who will listen. I have personally had employees of Lifewater pray with and for me on multiple occasions. The simple fact that this company and its employees are Christ centered and fully committed to long term sustainable implementation of their programs helps me to rank them as my top charity. An added benefit is that every program implemented can help entire community of people.
Great Job Lifewater!!!
I was introduced to LifeWater a number a years ago when a friend started riding for Wheels4Water (a LifeWater fundraising effort). After donating to our friend's ride, we were able to listen to him and others from that team talk about the vision of LifeWater. I loved that LifeWater did not just go find a village and give them a well. They start with why you need clean water. Why do you need to wash your hands? Why do you need a latrine? Why shouldn't your animals be kept in your house? So many concepts that we take for granted. Because of their approach, I began to increase my partnership with LifeWater.
Last spring I was asked if I would consider going on a donor education trip. This was a really intimidating thought to me. I finally decided that if I was going to continue to partner with this organization I should really take this opportunity to see firsthand what they are doing. Having just returned about a month ago from that trip, I will say that I was blown away! I was amazed at the efficiency with which LifeWater runs. When they go into a village, they meet and get to know every family. They take the time to personally get to know everyone. When it is time for the well to be installed. they have already taken the time to identify what type pf well will best suit this village (and made sure material to keep the well operational is easily accessible). They know the exact amount of materials that will be needed to build the well so that there is not waste. Every detail is planned out!
LifeWater is also very open with their goals and direction for the future. It was amazing to be in Ethiopia and have them show us exactly where their next phase of impact was already planned to be. It is not often you find an organization that is so open with all of what is going on operationally. I appreciated how every question I asked was welcomed and answered. Given my experience on this trip, I look forward to continuing my partnership with LifeWater.
I first volunteered with Lifewater International in 2012 after I retired from teaching biology at a university. I went to Lira, Uganda with a team of volunteers and taught community leaders about sanitation and hygiene. Later, the students went with us to a remote village where they taught the lessons we taught them. In future years I traveled to Ethiopia and Cambodia.
Several years ago, I searched for a practical “ministry” to be involved in. Lifewater introduced me to the need for WASH – clean Water, adequate Sanitation and improved Hygiene. What followed changed me.
Having volunteered in several "train the trainer" trips with Lifewater, to Kenya, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Ethiopia, my observations are honest and first-hand. I have learned so much about the value of each life. Each training was unique. Each village faces real hardship; this work is not easy.
I have visited those locations a second time and witnessed with my own eyes those same staff still at work, seen the community volunteers follow through, met the healthier families and the happier school children. Latrines built and used. Handwashing practices established. Safe water use practices implemented. Water points, built, used and cared for. Water-borne disease dealt a real blow. Dignity, self-respect and gratitude characterize the many, many individuals and villages having made changes for the better in their lives. Their response is “we are so grateful to God.”
Lifewater’s mission, and the way they go about it, has my full support; going and giving.
Is there an option to give 6 stars? I love Lifewater, because Lifewater loves God’s people!
I’ve been involved as a donor and volunteer with Lifewater for over a decade, and can’t say enough good things. I was first introduced to this organization during college, and as an engineer, I wanted to jump in, get my hands dirty, and dig some wells! But, as I started to learn more about Lifewater, I found that I was way off-base. Lifewater’s staff and programs taught me that the global water crisis can’t be solved simply by digging a well or installing a latrine - poverty and development are far more complicated than that. Lifewater fully understands and is passionate about holistic, long-term, sustainable development that is centered around God’s love for ALL people.
As a professional engineer who’s worked in sanitation my entire career, I can tell you that I’ve been very impressed by Lifewater’s model, and have seen its effectiveness first-hand. I highly recommend this organization - start supporting today! Do it!
We are fairly new to the Lifewater experience. We were attracted to Lifewater's approach to the serious water conditions that have affected so many countries. Not only are villages receiving fresh water and help with how to improve the sanitary conditions for their homes and communities, they are also empowered to maintain those conditions with continued training and encouragement. This isn't just about digging wells and finding safe water. It's also about equipping family members to become confident, safe and healthy. We are very impressed with the Lifewater staff members and teams in the states and foreign countries that keep donors like us informed with current information about the villages we help support. We look forward to the updates we receive about LIfewater projects. We feel honored to be able to contribute to the faith-based non profit.
We happened upon Lifewater a couple of years ago during a year-end google search for faith-based well-digging nonprofits in Africa. Having served there many years ago, our hearts remain tender toward the beautiful people we knew and loved. We have partnered with this amazing group ever since and now have the privilege of sponsoring our second village (along with family members who've also caught the vision). It is our joy to see the transformation, both physical and spiritual, in these places where Lifewater works. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve with them!
Many years ago, as a young physician I worked in a rural hospital in a developing country and saw the recurrent symptoms and debilitating effects of contaminated water. My frustration in repeatedly treating the illnesses but not being able to effectively change the underlying cause has found resolution in supporting Lifewater. Lifewater brings dedication and expertise to solve the problem that I was acutely aware of but unable to solve myself in that small town.
My travels since that time and a trip with a Lifewater mission have increased my awareness of the difficulty in establishing and maintaining a safe water supply; it is much more than just drilling a good well. Lifewater has developed a comprehensive plan to involve the local community and maintain the clean water source combined with practical education about sanitation and hygiene to make a real difference in the health of these communities.
I’m happy for the patients I was able to help years ago but I’m even more satisfied because of the people who don’t need medical treatment for water-borne diseases today because they have benefited from a Lifewater project.
I have loved working with Tyson Babayco at Lifewater International. He has been extremely supportive and responsive as I ask many questions both during and after a Lifewater fundraiser done by our church. Though We have finished the fundraising and donation by our church, he continues to be very supportive and informative and responsive as we seek to follow the impact on the community in Uganda that we are supporting. It is our hope that we may continue to be involved in further community projects with Lifewater.
Long-time and very good friends of ours introduced us to Lifewater a number of years ago. At several events where the background, mission and focus of Lifewater was shared, we were so impressed by their work and their focus on getting clean, available water to people in need that we wanted to be a part of it. We saw the benefit of how they were able to involve the local people in the process of obtaining and sustaining a clean water source and a healthy environment. We appreciated their careful use of the Lord's finances made available by others. We saw that the results were sustainable and on-going. We were especially thankful that their desire is to honor Christ in making Him known through this work. May this venture continue to be blessed and a blessing!
We became aware of Lifewater through friends who have volunteered for years. We were encouraged to support the work in general, but through that, have learned to know of their faithful work in many ways. We began to support them in a more specific fashion and now feel connected directly to the work and to know of its blessing on many people. We would encourage anyone to engage in their work, whether through volunteering directly or simply financially and to see how lives are impacted, both physically and spiritually. They are doing God's work.
Amy and I are blessed to partner with Lifewater having built several wells and look forward to many more in the future! We have worked with several non-profits in the past and Lifewater really stands out in how much they include us in the work that is done in these communities. We truly feel a part of the mission experience. Jack and Amy Fleming
"We're going to ride our bicycles from Boston to Chicago in a week to raise funds for clean water in Uganda and it would be great to have your support". That was a conversation I had with a good (and adventuresome) friend in 2016 and it was my first exposure to LifeWater and their Wheels 4 Water initiative. Not only was that ride successful but so were three additional fund-raising rides that team completed, including a grueling two week cross-country trek. Their enthusiasm helped to hook me into the need for clean water and sanitation that is a day-to-day condition for millions of others, loved by God and for whom Christ came to share the good news.
As I investigated Lifewater's mission, I discovered their WASH strategy (water, access, sanitation, hygiene). I consider WASH to be among the most practical, effective strategies I've ever come across in need-focused ministry. I was also gripped by Lifewater's vision for a healthy village - again, so practical and well articulated. It was meaningful to see the vision for what the ministry wants to accomplish along with a strategy to do it and technology to measure progress. Objectives and key results at work in a non-profit!
Along the way, Daren, from LifeWater's development team provided great feedback on progress and successes in the field. It was encouraging to receive his phone calls and emails including asking how he could pray for me and my family.
I believe in what LifeWater seeks to accomplish and enjoy supporting this ministry. My prayer is LIfeWater will continue to be enthusiastic and diligent in its efforts and that the Lord will multiply resources that contribute to a harvest of souls for his kingdom.
Some years ago, God laid on my heart to make a difference by helping provide clean water to those around the world who didn't have access. I wasn't sure what that looked like, or at least what organization so I prayed for guidance and started reviewing online. That being said, there are different organizations that do similar functions as Lifewater International but I was led to donate through them. My expectation was that I would contribute, maybe hear some info and then move on after trying to be obedient. What actually happened was a blessing from God back to me. Within a day of my donation I was contacted by Daren Wendell and quickly we realized that he lived less than 15 minutes from me. Providential considering that Lifewater doesn't have a large staff and that they are headquartered in CA (we live in Ohio). So not only the blessing of a new friendship in Christ, but the actual activities that Lifewater does and how they build the Healthy Village and work to teach the community to take responsibility for a healthy lifestyle once the well is in place is excellent. Not to mention the love for Jesus that they share. To me as a Christian I feel confident in my giving to Lifewater International and would recommend any other individual to contribute also. You'll be very satisfied in how you can pass God's resources to others.
In Christ,
John & Lisa Rich
When the tsunami of 2004 hit the south Pacific, I was stunned to my toes. There are so many disasters of which we hear, that we can become desensitized to them, but this act of nature drove me to a passion and compassion for its effect. First, I told my husband that I had to go there and bring whatever relief I could. He was looking at me, probably wondering how he was going to stop me. It wasn't long until I got my bearings and as I saw the water as the problem, I knew that clean water was the solution. In fact, clean water is the solution to many maladies in the underdeveloped world, including disease and girls not getting to school, as well as the first needed intervention after a natural disaster.
Luckily for my husband, I happened to know about Lifewater International because a friend worked there. I immediately called her and our relationship began with Lifewater. We have been donors ever since. Because we lived in California at the time, we were privileged to visit a Lifewater Conference, which helped us feel connected. Most of all, though, what compels us to continue to give is the way this organization supplies life-giving water to communities: through empowerment of the local participants. Hiring local staff and building local leadership teams is crucial and only second in importance for sustainability of clean water and education.
I am currently reading the book Wave, by Sonali Deraniyagala, who survived the 2004 tsunami (although her family did not). It reminds me of the unspeakable devastation most of the world's population lives with. Empowerment is the greatest gift we can give people, including the empowerment of good health that comes from something as basic as clean water.
I stumbled across Lifewater International while doing a random Google search for charity Mt. Kilimanjaro hikes. Interested to learn more about their mission, I spoke over the phone with their donor relations coordinator, Tyson Baybayco. Once I learned about Lifewater's impact on the lives of other people, I knew that joining the Kilimanjaro campaign was something that I needed to do. From the day that I signed up to the day that I summited Kilimanjaro, Lifewater's staff was there for every step of the journey, figuratively and literally. They answered every question I had, supported me during the entire fundraising process, and selected top-notch team leaders for the hike. The entire experience was truly life-changing in a multitude of ways, from the team members, the mountain views, the physical and mental challenges, and the impact that was made on the lives of others. I could never thank Lifewater International enough for providing me with an opportunity like this.
i was one of 21 climbers that raised money to bring clean drinking water to impoverished communities by building wells through Lifewater and climbing Kilimanjaro . As i was taking off from Kilimanjaro airport you could see Uhuru peak. It made me happy! Happy to know we were up there and happy to know part of Steve will always be there. I lost my husband to a heart attack and we had planned to climb Kilimanjaro together. I spent an entire year preparing to reach this goal and summit. What I didn’t prepare for was all the amazing people I would meet along the way. The porters who tirelessly carried our gear, the guides who cheered us on, made sure they did everything possible so that everyone in our group could summit and most of all the 19 other people in our group who each had their own reasons for tackling Kilimanjaro. It’s been an amazing journey and one I come away from a stronger, more humble person. The destination and the summit were a goal that was accomplished, but it was the journey , and who we shared it with that will stay with me forever!!! To the 20 climbers in my group, thank you for your gift of friendship, encouragement and love!!!
I climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro with 20 other people associated with Lifewater as a fundraiser for clean water. The more I learned about this organization's mission and methods for implementation, the more impressed I was. Their commitment to community buy in, and follow up with the communities they work with makes them one of the most responsible charity organizations I'm familiar with. Their work bringing clean water and sanitation to people who would not have access to these amenities otherwise is incredibly important, and tangibly improves the lives of the people they help. I hope to continue working with Lifewater in the future, and highly recommend them to others!
I've partnered with Lifewater for years now in many different ways. I'm proud to be associated with this organization because of the work they do, because of the difference they make, because of the efficiency in which they do it. All the while, they are spreading the Gospel to some of the most remote places on our planet. Matthew Chapter 28 is ALIVE at Lifewater.
Whatever, where ever, how ever they need me...I'm in. ...treasures in Heaven.
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The best nonprofit I've ever worked with. They are so passionate about helping others. This organization is diligent and disciplined and dedicated to creating better lives for those in some of the most remote places on the planet. I'm grateful to be a part of everything they do. I've enjoyed my time working with them. Doing it and doing it well...Lifewater.
My husband & I were privileged to take a vision trip to Uganda with Lifewater in October 2018. It was a life changing experience. We were so impacted by the warm welcome from the people in the 6 villages and 2 schools that we visited in the Mayuge district. They continually expressed their deep gratitude to God and Lifewater as they proudly showed us their "healthy homes" and newly completed clean water points (wells). The exceptionally capable Lifewater field staff lovingly mentor, imparting dignity, as they continue to encourage these people toward sustainable life style changes. We highly recommend Lifewater as an effective faith based non-profit bringing lasting change to the world.
I speak as both a volunteer in the SLO office and as a donor. Everything I have observed about Lifewater has convinced me that this is a ministry born from the heart of the Father. Lifewater does the work of Jesus to help the poor of the three target nations to help them to lead better, healthier lives. Instead of just coming into a village, putting in a few latrines and a spigot and then leaving, Lifewater employs local people to reach out to a targeted village by educating the people about sanitation, hygiene, safe water sources and the gospel message all with the idea of transmitting God's love in Christ. The work Lifewater does is wholistic and sustainable. Their priorities are first spiritual, demonstrated by helping the vulnerable to have access to clean water and sanitation. Lifewater uses donations most efficiently, just $50.00 provides safe water for one child for a lifetime. When my husband and I contribute to this organization I have complete confidence that our monetary gifts are being used for the stated purpose and that lives are being impacted and forever changed.
After several years of supporting Lifewater, I participated in a '"Visioning" trip to Ethiopia to see their work first hand. They not only offer a complete package of safe water and hygiene training linked to the Gospel, but they transform society in the process. Whole villages are cleaner, healthier, more determined to forge their own future, and optimistic about doing so. By working in schools, they are also aiming to reach an entire generation. Furthermore, they really go out of their way to reach those hardest to reach, the ones ignored by other groups. Their thinking and vision is long term, generational, not simply accomplishing a number of wells, water points, or WASH training events. If you want your investment to yield long lasting effect, this is the place. The picture shows a transformed house: latrine, tippytap, drying rack, and incredible pride.
Shiloh Church in Oakland, California is honored to partner with Lifewater with their wells and latrines projects in Ethiopia. My husband and I were able to travel with Sean Martin and the team to see the projects firsthand and were amazed by all that they are doing to help people who do not have clean water. Not only do they construct clean water sources, they also train the people on proper hygiene and sanitation. This truly leaves a remarkable and lasting impact on the health and wellness of the villages, schools and communities. Thank you for the opportunity to partner with you!
WOW. LifeWater invited us to come to Ethiopia 2 weeks ago for a "vision" trip to see exactly where our donations are going. Our company donates as well as us personally.
I have never seen a non profit that is so sustainable and is making such a big impact. We visited many villages where these people now have clean water, sanitation, bathrooms, hand-washing stations, etc. The most amazing part of it was 95% of the work was done by the people in the villages with the support of Lifewater.
Lifewater facilities the whole process to convert a village into a "healthy village". Once they have done their part, life water will come and put in a well. Then they train the staff to manage the well. It is a wholistic approach to helping people and not just coming in and dropping off a well, then leaving.
I am very excited to continue our work with Lifewater!
I could not be more impressed with Lifewater International! I have joyfully supported Lifewater for many years, but spending a week in Uganda, seeing the community development first-hand, gave me a profound renewed enthusiasm for Lifewater and the transformation happening in the village homes and schools where this organization serves.
Lifewater has a very comprehensive, strategic approach of coming alongside the people in the villages (including staff hired from within the country), working WITH them to encourage changes that promote sustainable health, hygiene and sanitation. The men, women and children are proud of their villages and their schools! They welcomed me and the other visitors, happily showing us their accessible clean water, latrines, drying racks, hand washing stations and all they have accomplished with the support of Lifewater. They shared their relief that the women and children are now not spending all day filling and transporting water jugs (from a distant, contaminated water source!) They spoke of their hope for the future because of their improved health, sanitation, and hygiene, and consequently, the opportunity for improved school attendance for their children. Their gratitude and bright smiles were heartwarming! And the hug from a 91 year old woman that almost squeezed the life out of me spoke volumes!
Lifewater International is an amazing Christian, non-profit organization, making a vital difference in the lives of vulnerable people. Supporting Lifewater is truly rewarding!
Recently participated in fundraising event for Life Water Int. As a part of the event we were able to take part in climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, Africa. this was a remarkable time. Life water provided a guide service for or use that was top rate. Our group was able to provide a large amount of funds to Life water for their use in Ethiopia and Uganda Africa. This organization is the best when it comes to providing services and spreading the Good News of Christ.
What an amazing experience to walk alongside with the Lifewater International staff as they visited engaged and prospective communities in Uganda. We were greeted by engaged communities with dancing, laughter, gifts and much appreciation for the life and hope that Lifewater has brought to their families. Many stories were shared about how their lives were changed for good when the Lifewater team arrived. Lifewater's approach to Clean Water and Sanitary/Hygiene education is taught by local community leaders, so has high credibility and engagement.
Conversely, we were greeted by prospective communities with pleas for help and I was overwhelmed to witness an open well that is currently used for drinking water. There is so much more that Lifewater could do with additional funding.
Lifewater shares real time results of donor investments and should be on your list to consider for a donation!
I have supported Lifewater International since 1984. I came across a small ad in a water journal while completing my Masters Degree in Environmental Health. As a person who has a deep desire to see the world drink clean water i have been extremely impressed with their simple beginnings and their continued development over the years. Today they are a very well organized entity that has refined their focus and mission. The Healthy Homes project is just one example of how they continue to assess their effectiveness and implement changes to best serve the communities. Their real time data collection is just another example of how they are able to embrace various forms of media to track and evaluate their effectiveness and progress. As a donor it is very easy to see the impacts of my giving. The people who work and volunteer are super nice and friendly and provide excellent feedback and communication regarding projects and their developments. I also respect the balance that as they bring clean water to the thirsty body they bring living water to the soul.
Lifewater International recruits college students who want to make a difference and gives them a chance to volunteer and serve through local outreaches, fundraiser, and task at their headquarters office. My experience volunteering with lifewater international has been inspiring to see the staff being passionate and driven to bring solutions to the world's biggest problems regarding access to safe and clean water . I have been educated on the sanitation and water crisis around the world and have seen first hand the impact and positive change Lifewater International brings to vulnerable children and women. As a Cal Poly student in San Luis Obispo and volunteering with Lifewater International , they have changed me the way I see the world and changed my perspective on how I live my life and that is to live a life of service and serve the most vulnerable people with the world.
Lifewater has exceeded all of my expectations! In the past, I have volunteered for Lifewater and I have been an attendee at an event. Each encounter I have with them, I am so inspired by their passions to serve and help better the world. It is apparent that each member of their team supports and pours their hearts into Lifewater's mission to end the water and sanitation crisis. Through education, accountability, and acknowledgment of each individuals role in the community, Lifewater has truly blessed the world with their approach.
In October, I attended a BBQ fundraiser for Lifewater. I appreciated every detail that went into this event, especially how they gave attendees an opportunity to use virtual reality goggles to have a look at the environment in which these people live. Throughout the event, I was so moved by everyone coming together and giving in order to provide safe bathrooms and clean water to Ethiopia!
My experience as a volunteer was also very meaningful. I was able to engage with the local community, young and old, to educate them about Lifewater's mission. At our booth, we had a jug in order to bring to life the struggle that exists for people in third world countries to get to a water source. The ability to provide such insight to them was very impactful. On top of that, working with people that want to serve and make a lasting imprint on the world for generations to come is amazing.
I feel honored to volunteer for Lifewater as well as be a guest at their events. They truly inspire and empower not only the people they serve, but the people that they bring together.
Our small school group decided to give to LifeWater. The students wanted to taise money to help with the world water crisis. LifeWater was so Brasília in getting the students facts and a fun tour of their offices they have been incredibley helpful and inspiring.
I first heard about Lifewater several years ago in college, and always wanted to get involved somehow. For the last few months, I've been fundraising to build a well through Climb for Clean Water. It has been an awesome experience. All of the staff I have talked to have been so kind and helpful. The paperwork part was much easier than I expected; everything was very transparent. Its all so worth it because Lifewater's approach to helping others is so thoughtful and empowering. I got involved because having access to clean water is absolutely at the center of the cycle of poverty. Building a well creates infrastructure, and is an investment in the lives of everyone in the village. I'm excited to see more unfold!
Dave and Mary Edmonds
We have become more and more aware of people on our planet that spend much of their day just trying to find water or not having potable water for basic necessities. We have been looking for a way to try and make a difference and a friend introduced us to Lifewater, International .
Lifewater meets a number of criteria that we feel is important to solve this crisis.
It is a Christian based organization and brings eternal good news along with meeting daily needs.
It emphasizes hygiene and disease prevention along with providing water.
It requires community involvement and community financial input
before they will drill a well.
They have a high long term success rate because of the pre work they do before wells are dug. They do not abandon the projects that have been completed.
These qualities are why we have chosen to back Lifewater financially.
I have been a volunteer with Lifewater for over a year and I am continually impressed by their work. Lifewater is dedicated to bringing sustainable whole life health to those who need it most. Through their healthy village model, Lifewater has been successful at providing clean water, healthy sanitation practices and hygiene education resulting in lasting change for the whole community. I have witnessed first hand the staff’s heart for those they serve and their dedication to financial transparency and careful stewardship. I highly recommend supporting Lifewater.
I not only had an extraordinary opportunity to do a fundraising climb for Lifewater up Mount Kilimanjaro in 2016 with my son, Max, but I got to travel to Ethiopia to see first hand the work that Lifewater volunteers and Lifewater's African staff are achieving in remote Ethiopian villages. I got to speak with several Ethiopian residents of these remote communities who told me that the incidence of water-borne diseases in their communities has greatly declined as a result of Lifewater's efforts, which include hygiene education as it pertains to everything from proper hand washing to dish washing (and having the dishes air dry in direct sunlight) as well as the installation of safe water wells. Lifewater staff has also been working with these communities to raise awareness about the importance of proper sanitation, which evolves everything from the installation of latrines next to homes as well as the installation of corrals to better contain animal waste. I also got to see some of the school latrines, which Lifewater constructed, providing privacy and sanitation, which is important, particularly for young girls, who often stop going to school in their late adolescent or teen years if secure latrines are not available. I left Ethiopia with a great sense of pride in what Lifewater is achieving and the difference the organization and its volunteers are making in people's lives.
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I have volunteered with Lifewater for several years to support the organization's work. I have been so convinced about the value of Lifewater's work that I asked my 17-year-old son to join me on a climb up Mount Kilimanjaro in 2016 as a fundraising effort for Lifewater's water, sanitation and hygiene education projects in Ethiopia. It was an incredible experience. There were a dozen other hikers from across the U.S. on our fundraising climb. Lifewater and its staff and volunteers are very committed to making a positive difference in the lives of some people in remote communities in Africa and Southeast Asia. I have been impressed with this organization and wholehearted support their efforts.
Lifewater makes a difference in the lives of others with authenticity and excellence. Providing clean, healthy water to people is valuable in itself. Lifewater's vision goes beyond that, providing a holistic model that meets the health and wellness needs of every person it serves. Every interaction with this organization is positive. I am continually impressed with the level of care and detail that goes into everything they do.
Lifewater has far exceeded my expectations as a nonprofit that I feel good about supporting. I trust them as an organization and know that not only will they get the work done, but they will do it with sustainability and the community in mind. Their approach to a healthy village provides an opportunity to make change that is life-sustaining rather than simply providing a short-term band aid solution. Lifewater's financial transparency has helped me trust that they are stewarding finances well. I love their mission and believe in the work that they are doing around the world.
Lifewater has an amazing vision, plan, and in-country staff to provide safe water and healthy practices education in Ethiopia, Uganda, and Cambodia. They intentionally share Christ's love in the process. I am so happy to be a part through giving and praying.
Lifewater is a fantastic charity if you are looking to empower families rather than just show them charity. They really work together with the community members, helping them realize their own abilities. Households carry out measures to improve their own health and achieve a healthy home status. The village receives a well after several layers of behavior change is in place and widely visible.
That's the kind of change that lasts!
I have been involved as a volunteer with Lifewater International for ten years and I can easily say that I am continually inspired by their pursuit of ending the global water crisis.
Lifewater cares deeply about people around the world suffering from lack of clean water and healthy sanitation practices and I have seen first-hand the incredible impact that education and access to clean water in vulnerable communities. The holistic approach that LI has created doesn't only find clean water, they work alongside the communities to remove the barriers that prevent the people from life-changing practices. It's amazing to see the energy, excitement and commitment that entire villages exude to make generation long changes that will improve their quality of life, and generations to come after them.
Our church has supported Lifewater International for a number of years now and I am not only impressed with their professionalism, but equally blessed with their heart to bring clean water to the less fortunate of the world. We've partnered with Lifewater in building a water wells in Cambodia and Ethiopia. Lifewater's approach to ministry is practical, pragmatic and overly life changing. We are very proud to be a part of this wonderful nonprofit and look forward to many years of serving together.
I use water to save lives in the manner shown in my pic. Life water uses water to save lives with a much higher calling. I have been supporting Lifewater for several years now and have become very familiar with this organization. What impresses me is that they do what they say they do then back it up and follow through.
Lifewater lives out In the same way I do the command we have been given by Jesus. "To care for the poor". In 2018 it is hard to believe that there are still those that are unable to obtain fresh clean water. Life water not only provides the means for sustainable water supply, but continues with education for sanitation, hygiene, and maintenance of the water source to the communities they serve. This is, in my opinion, the proper way to provide life saving disease free access to water.
There are many other organizations that may provide water through the drilling of wells and affixing a well-head and pump. However many of these same organizations do not follow up and leave the communities high and dry with only temporary water sources. Lifewater does not do this they put in place the resources needed for the communities to maintain the wells through the communities own funding and education to re[pair the source as the needs arise. Lifewater also maintains contact through technology to get real time data and information directly from the communities to provide information that sustains the water source and the community.
Good stewards of their funds they receive and are always accountable for their spending by being transparent with their budget and spending.
But, most of all they share the love of God with the people so they will always have hope and love to sustain them spiritually.
I highly recommend supporting Lifewater International. They believe that every underserved child and family should have the opportunity to drink safe water and to live free of water-borne diseases, and that anything less is a grave injustice. By supporting the work of Lifewater you can provide more water to vulnerable children and families than you ever thought possible.
As a long time employee of a non profit that has collaborated with them on dozens of water and sanitation projects in Ethiopia and Cambodia, I can attest to the dedication and impact of their work. Lifewater International continues to be a valuable partner to us and we hope to continue including them in our program for many years to come!
In February 2017 I had the amazing opportunity to visit Uganda to observe firsthand Lifewater in-country staff serving their rural schools and communities. I was overwhelmed and deeply blessed witnessing their godly commitment and love to minister to all in Jesus' name.
James, the half-brother of Jesus, wrote "If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself,' you are doing well.' (James 2:8) Lifewater is indeed doing well.
To a person they seek to be a humble and effective relational conduit for sharing in practical ways God's redemptive waters in the Messiah with their countrymen. They labor from sun up to sun down to educate, train and provide through partnerships life's basic necessities for hygiene and clean water. Lifewater is making a true difference.
I visited elementary grade schools in the Kaliro District, some with 1,000 students, having no electricity or clean running water. Lifewater partners with the school administrators, students, and their parents to provision and maintain new latrines separated for girls and boys. And to promote hygienic use of these facilities, the roofs of the latrines collect rain water into large, secure storage tanks from which the student-body can readily wash their hands after each use. The sense of gratitude and ownership expressed by the teachers, students and parents was profoundly evident in their songs, speeches, and skits.
I also visited communities where Lifewater is inserting deep water wells to eliminate the need to draw water for drinking and washing from open, generational sources contaminated daily by animals and livestock. The provision of the deep water wells brings fundamental improvement to the general welfare of the community.
House-by-house the Lifewater teams labors to ensure each resident is trained and certified in the simple but effective use of clean water, sanitary latrines, and practical hygiene for life's daily needs. And they are seeing and documenting a profound change for the better. Through regular follow-ups, they meticulously track reductions in disease and illness for publishing to the World Health Organization. And apparently, the WHO is duly impressed by their results in comparison with other NGO hygiene programs.
So in conclusion, please prayerfully consider partnering with Lifewater. Lifewater welcomes your questions, and will even provide opportunity for your to become personally involved in bringing clean water and hygiene to some of the world's most at-risk communities.
Greg Poirier
08 Oct 2017
Why am I such a vocal and financial supporter of Lifewater? Real and sustainable change is the key for me with the right motives, vision, and leadership.
There are many charities that give funds or build wells, but that’s not how I see Lifewater (or how I just see them). It is an empowering organization, an organization that supports those in need, an organization that works alongside the local communities, and an organization that starts with ‘why’. The approach of sanitation, hygiene, and clean water is incredibly sound and proven effective in helping many vulnerable peoples. It's an organization of action.
An organization to meet its vision needs the right leadership. I’ve not only met the leadership team of Lifewater, I’ve spent real time with them whether on a mountainside, in the slums, or riding hours in a van on an African dirt road. In that time I’ve gotten to challenge, to listen, to learn, and to really see into the hearts of these people. I’ve never seen so much passion, God-centered thinking, and desire to make a change with the brains and grit to engage and bring along others on this journey. I’m a different person than I was because of them; I’m honored to call them my friends now. Lifewater is also amazingly efficient in that nearly all the monies that come in go directly to impacting those that in need. It’s not about them but about doing what Christ has asked us to do to help those in need. “Less of me, more of You” is a prayer I heard many times and everyone there lives those words.
Last year, I had the opportunity to climb Kilimanjaro through Lifewater with a group to raise funds for the organization to work into new communities. It was an incredible experience: to check off a bucket list item with a team of like-minded people, to see the culture and natural beauty, but most of all to be a small part of something bigger. Our team was able to raise over $100k, and through that our supporters also gained an awareness of the needs and what this organization does to help. If you have ever considered doing this climb, I would highly recommend you watch for their future trips – they helped take care of all the logistics so I could focus on raising funds and the hike is better with such a supportive team around you.
I can’t speak highly enough of Lifewater. Read up yourself on what they do and how they do it, meet the leadership and other team members, see their actions and listen to their passion - you’ll quickly know what I mean.
I can't say enough good things about the people at Lifewater International and the work they do in caring for others in need around the world. When I think of the Lifewater team, I am reminded of Isaiah 58:6-7, where the Lord reminds His people that caring those in need, not religious rule-keeping, is what He delights in:
“Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?" ESV
My name is Luke, a civil engineer and construction project manager working in the water industry in California, and I have had the privilege of taking part in an adventure-filled fundraiser for Lifewater in 2016. I and a group of other Lifewater supporters and staff climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa to raise money and support for current Lifewater projects around the world. It was an especially touching experience for myself and all who were involved to get to be a part of such a worthy cause.
Though I have not personally been involved as boots-on-the-ground on any of Lifewater's projects, I can speak directly to the character of their staff and dedicated volunteers - that they are genuine and wholeheartedly committed to serving those in need by providing the basic necessities of clean drinking water and sanitation. Their work is built on a deep faith in Christ and motivated by the knowledge that He has made them and sustains them for this purpose.
Please consider supporting Lifewater International today.
These guys are pros. Water development has been a passion of mine for years and I supported various organizations before being introduced to Lifewater. Compared with any other water-focused NGO with which I'm familiar, Lifewater's vision, heart, programs, processes and follow-up are superior, and the results speak volumes. The team is passionate and talented, and the impacts are significant and sustained. I'm blessed to engage with them in such meaningful and impactful work.
I have been an advocate for Lifewater for about a year and a half and it is one of my most favorite roles to have. Lifewater is unlike a lot of non-profits I have dealt with in the past. They go deeper than just providing clean water; they are providing a sanitary lifestyle. Lifewater will travel deeper in to places no one will ever see in their lifetime to give those even harder to reach a fighting chance to live with simple necessities, such as clean water and a restroom. I will forever be an advocate for this non-profit and each month when I donate to it, I know that I am actually helping someone who may have never had a sip of clean water. What a life changing experience for us all.
I had the opportunity to climb Mount Kilimanjaro with this amazing nonprofit and raise money to end the global water crisis. My sister and I were connected with Lifewater less than a year before the climb and loved spending a week in Tanzania on the mountain with them. The hiking days could get long, but our team had high spirits which made the time go by fast. I look back on Kili and miss it for all the beauty and passion that I experienced there. This is a great way to attract people who are ardent to aid in the global water crisis, while building a community of those people on the mountainside.
I've volunteered with a group from Lifewater since 2011. Daren and Amie were part of a great non-profit called Active:Water and I ran a few marathons to raise awareness and funds. In the past years, Active:Water was integrated into Lifewater and at first I was worried, because going from working with a small group to a much larger one can sometimes lose the personal feeling of working with like-minded individuals. The transition was anything but worrisome, in hindsight. Daren and Amie moved into new roles within Lifewater and they joined into a group of others who care just as much as they do. Everyone within the organization has been helpful, beyond measure, when it comes to putting together successful fundraising. Working with Lifewater has been a treat and I look forward to continuing my partnership to help save lives through clean water and the love of Jesus Christ.
I have been a volunteer and supporter of Lifewater since 1998 and began traveling as a volunteer in 1999. I have worked as a water professional in industry for 36 years with a variety of roles and a Church board member, so I can aptly compare Lifewater as an organization. Lifewater has trained field trainers with excellent written material and hands-on” programs that have prepared field trainers to effectively train the trainees in developing countries with a need for access to safe drinking water. The support from Lifewater staff members and their dedication in unsurpassed.
The financial practices on trips (as a team leader myself) were carefully passed on during team leadership training, including careful stewardship of funds used during training trips. Complete and accurate expense reports were expected from Lifewater team leaders.
At the core of Lifewater is the caring of those we are working with and training in developing regions of the world. In my experiences, this caring has had a lasting impact on those being trained. This has been true across the cultures I have worked with as a Lifewater volunteer.
As a Christian, the teamwork with fellow Lifewater volunteers, the international partner organizations and those being trained has been fortified by the common thread of Jesus and the Bible. The caring and commitment to those without a specific faith offers a good example of what it means to be a Christian. I recently completed my doctorate degree in environmental sustainability and worked with my contacts in Uganda to gather much of the data for my research and my dissertation. This is one example of the lasting relationships formed as Lifewater volunteer.
I can honestly say that my Lifewater experiences (in the U.S. conferences, training sessions and international trips to developing nations) has changed my life outlook and direction and will continue to do so for years to come.
Dr. Greg Bachman
My name is Julie and I love water – it’s my absolute favorite drink. I love it so much I used to joke with my friends that I’ve been “peeing clear since my birth year.” Needless to say, I drink a lot of water.
Traveling to Ethiopia with the Lifewater team to visit project sites broadened my understanding of what clean and safe water can do.
Trekking through the green hillsides from an unsafe water point to a newly installed Lifewater spring cap, the team and I are bombarded by families pouring out of their homes, inviting us over to proudly show off their safe latrine, their tippy tap hand washing station, and their drying rack. The pride these families have for safe water practices is unlike anything I’ve seen or experienced before. It’s pure, joy-filled pride. It’s the result of implementing clean and safe water practices in these villages through education and instruction. It’s people like Biftu – an in country Lifewater employee – living with and understanding the village in order to connect with them and ensure they know the importance of clean and safe water practices.
Back stateside from Ethiopia, my appreciation for water has recently grown. I understand what clean water truly means and can do. I see hope and possibility in water. I see women being elevated in villages as equal members of the water committee. I see girls confident to go to school knowing they have a private bathroom. I see life in water.
I still pee clear, but I don’t joke about it as much. I know the power and effectiveness of safe and clean water and I do not want anything to undermine that - even if it is true.
Lifewater. The word speaks literally to life giving water that the folks that Lifewater serves in Africa and Cambodia. But I believe in an even more important "deeper" sense, Lifewater is the thirst quenching water of life from our savior Jesus Christ. Not only does this company provide physical life sustaining water, but also spiritual water by the Churches they plant in each community they serve. My wife and I were fortunate enough to find Lifewater after searching and searching online and through other avenues for an international Christian Based water project. We did a detailed evaluation of the service that is provided and instantly contacted them for more details. Theyre willingness to travel to us and present was amazing.
I could write for hours about them, the service and impact they provide, but just looking at the annual reports and financials, its very evident that they get projects completed and spread the word of Jesus over the world. We have engaged our church to support lifewater and we personally support them as well. Lifewaters' mission of providing clean water and healthy communities is evident in their work. We love supporting them and look forward to many years of partnership with them .
Chris and Sarah McCabe
Lifewater is an amazing organization we have partnered with to be our hands and feet in bringing clean water to thousands. Specifically, they have showed us how we can promote healthy, active lifestyles to meet personal goals but at the same time, raising funds and awareness for the cause of getting clean water to those who don't have it available.
They have a great ministry model, have the highest integrity, and allow for many others to get involved. I encourage anyone to partner with Lifewater.
Matt Slocum
Victory Life Church
I love knowing that the work that we support is actually making a difference in the lives of the people Lifewater serve. Lifewater's approach to addressing the water crisis is unmatched. This combined with their gold standard in donor care results in a organization that my wife and I are incredibly proud to partner with. See for yourself at Lifewater.org
While researching a Christian water non-profit to partner with, Lifewater exceeded my expectations! Their mission and methods of bringing clean water, sanitation and hygiene practices to rural villages is unique and life changing. Recently, my daughters traveled to Ethiopia with Lifewater and witnessed the positive impact they are having. It's a privilege to support the work of Lifewater as they meet people at their most basic need; clean water.
I have been a supporter of Lifewater International since 1998. I have always been impressed with how Lifewater involves the entire communities where they work to get ownership of the wells, latrines, etc.. So the communities themselves create the committees, resources and skills to maintain these facilities to assure they will last well into the future. Lifewater works with the local community leaders and local volunteers to make this their well, and not Lifewater's well.
In recent years, Lifewater has adapted the "WASH" concept, where they are not only providing wells for clean water, but addressing the entire concept around healthy living to include education for personal hygiene and proper sanitation. So latrines are often provided along with wells. Most recently the "Healthy Village" program has been initiated to allow entire communities to work towards implementing the WASH concepts and become certified as a Healthy Village.
I am very proud to be a supporter of Lifewater International and would highly recommend their organization to someone interested in supporting a non-profit that specializes in providing clean water and sanitation to poor, rural areas of Africa and Southeast Asia.
Lifewater International is a faith based non-profit that works to provide water, sanitation and hygiene programs in Africa and Asia. I emphasize faith based because faith is the motivation, enthusiasm and work ethic that drives their mission and ultimately leads to successful completion of goals. Lifewater does not "fix" things.They facilitate change through education and participation. Changed attitudes lead to changed lifestyle which improves health and welfare. I have volunteered for Lifewater for several years and witnessed this sustainable transformation of individuals and communities. Visit their website and learn more about "Vision of a Healthy Community" I think you will agree they are a worthwhile organization to support. I know I will continue to support them!
We learned of LifeWater Ministry approximately two years ago and we were so excited with what we witnessed. The dollar goes to the people in need. We partnered with them in 2016 and are committed to partnering with them again this year. We brought them in to the church to share how their ministry works. They move into a village, dig a well, teach and train the native people to care for the well and for themselves through healthy living. We witnessed in a short time the impact this has on a whole village. Health increases, mortality rates decrease and the children have an opportunity to have hope for a longer ife. We highligted them at our annual Missions conference becasue we wanted our whole fellowship to understand the quality of this ministry. They are trustworthy of their word and many are touched because of their faithfulness. This opens doors for them to minister to spiritual needs as well. A great program touching many lives.
Lifewater is a nonprofit I trust and love. Everything from their communication with donors to their work on the field is top notch. I feel confident that every dollar I've donated has had an effective and well-managed impact that brings real change!
I have had many great experiences with Lifewater (LI), and 2 of them reveal the impact on the people we are serving. The first was part of a session to a village to practice giving training to the community. Not far from our training site 3 large bladders (like water mattress but much bigger) had been installed with water piped from a creek to be purified with chemicals (this was not installed by LI). One of the bladders had started leaking and the people did not have any means to repair it. Worse yet, drinking water was being taken from the creek in which livestock was actively contaminating. Obviously previous efforts were not working. In contrast, during a recent LI trip to check progress in another area of the country, we observed several homes that had been certified Safe Homes, as well as springs that had been piped to concrete tanks with fences around them to keep livestock out. The community turned out to greet us and demonstrate the progress they had made, and each family had committed to paying a monthly fee to maintain the water source. They were very proud of what they had accomplished with LI's help. Even better, they reported that their children were no longer getting sick, and they were able save the money they had spent on frequent doctor visits. They are truly grateful for what LI has helped THEM accomplish.
After I read the book 'When Helping Hurts" it was obvious to me that I wanted to contribute to the well being of people around the world by empowering people to help themselves, not doing things that they can do themselves. I discovered that Lifewater was just the place for me. Their entire emphasis is on transformative growth by giving people the tools and information to make a difference in their own lives, and giving the them the confidence to do it. It is the rare organization that has not strayed from its founders beliefs from 40 years ago "that every underserved child and family should have the opportunity to drink safe water and to live free of water-borne diseases, and that anything less is a grave injustice." I have served with Lifewater in several countries and can say without a doubt that Lifewater is one of the finest support organizations that I have been involved with - and there have been many. Their success speaks for itself
I've been a volunteer with Lifewater International for 10 years and have been blessed to see first hand the impact of their work in developing countries. Unlike many other organizations, Lifewater's mission isn't about digging wells, it's about transformation - of people, communities and nations. Real change isn't the result of improved technology, it's about changed hearts that result in changed behavior. Building a strong foundation of individual and community involvement at the outset of projects ensures that water sources are maintained and protected, that latrines are clean and safe, and that good hygiene including handwashing is practiced by all. Lifewater's real-time monitoring of projects provides compelling evidence of the rate and sustainability of change using their unique Vision of a Health Village model. And all of this is achieved in some of the most remote and poor areas of Africa and Southeast Asia. That's why I'm not just a volunteer, I'm also a donor. An investment in Lifewater is the most cost effective means I know to bring health and hope to some of the very hardest places.
The seeds for my relationship with Lifewater International (LI) began about 7 years ago when I became aware of the water and hygiene crisis in developing countries. After some research I contacted LI and began training as a volunteer field trainer. I have been blessed to be part of several different teams working in Southeast Asia and Africa and each trip has been a unique experience. Lifewater does an excellent job of preparing team members before departure and insuring their safety during the trip.
One of the keys to success is the selecting of in-country partners we will be training to teach safe hygiene, sanitation and water points in the remote villages. The partners Lifewater selects have always been passionate about their work and well prepared. LI has been diligent in evaluating their work and taking stock of what works and want needs changing. They are always ready to adapt and try new methods that will result in a sustainable change for the community members. I wholeheartedly recommend Lifewater International as an organization to support either financially or as a volunteer.
Lifewater 11/07/2018
Thank you Pam! You are such a blessing to so many and we're so thankful for you!