WIB makes an incredible impact in an overlooked population and problem. They are empowering women, families, and communities in so many different ways, that I feel donating to them has a magnified and multiplied impact effect. And a passionate, dedicated team working on the ground with local leaders to ensure their support meets local needs!
My wife and I first discovered Water Is Basic (WiB) while attending church in Irving Texas several years ago. Their mission to empower local female leaders and create lasting change resonated deeply with us. We were moved by their impactful work and felt inspired to support them financially, knowing our contribution would help bring live-changing resources to those in need.
I worked for Water Is Basic several years ago and have remained involved as a donor and friend of some of the American employees. It still amazes me how well planned, well run, and highly focused on their goals this organization is. Everything they do is approached with utmost integrity, and drips (pun intended) with respect and compassion for the people of South Sudan. A great deal of thought is put into long term impact, and when success in one area opens new doors, the leadership work to take full advantage of the new opportunities, such as training the women whose time is freed up by the new access to clean water to become well repair persons, or getting them access to education in other arenas. What started as a charity born of an essential survival need in South Sudan has begotten all that can flourish from adequate health, a gift of time and energy, and the removal of an enormous source of worry- all in a way that empowers the people of South Sudan, especially the women. I am so proud of all that Water is Basic does and has done, and am excited to see what is to come from them.
Water is Basic is among the best organizations out there. Their partners abroad have the insight and expertise to provide solutions for communities that would otherwise be without safe water to drink. Through rain catchment systems, water filtration equipment, and partnerships with well repair crews, they work to ensure underresourced communities can spend their time and energy on other things and not the most basic need of humans across the world: finding clean and safe water. Water is Basic gets it done!
Water is Basic is an incredible organization, one of few I’ve known with the humility and flexibility to follow a community’s true needs - when they realized that the communities they serve needed their existing wells repaired, and that the women in those communities needed education and work, they pivoted from digging wells to equipping local women to enrich their communities and their families.
WIB is an amazing organization. I have supported them for years. The work they do is truly life changing for those in great need.
Water is Basic is amazing. They go where many won’t, bringing hope and opportunity wherever they go. Meeting the basic human need for water and empowering women and girls along the way. Remarkable
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Water is Basic changes lives. In providing life giving/life saving water to South Sudanese villages across the young nation, Water is Basic changes the lives of many. But Water is Basic changes lives back here in the US. By involving American (and other western countries) donors in their mission, Water is Basic transforms the worldview of many. My family has supported Water is Basic for 10 years and have been blessed to be able to participate vicariously in the work they do. It is humbling to be a part of something so important and life changing as providing clean drinking water.
We love the fact that drilling of the wells is done by South Sudanese crews and the maintenance and administration of the wells by local village leadership.
Water is Basic serves an important purpose in South Sudan by providing the means to access fresh water through wells. They also train women to repair the wells thereby empowering them in society there. We have supported WiB for years and plan to continue supporting this important ministry.
I first learned about water is basic at my church. Right from the start I knew it was a great organization headed by some very special people. What they do for people who don’t have clean water to use as part of their everyday life and to drink is just amazing. It has made me think so very many times about how I take water, clean water, for granted. This organization is helping so many people attain what they need to live, to supply jobs, and to empower women in their communities. It gives me pleasure and hopefulness to be able to donate to this organization. Thank you Water Is Basic -the feet and hands of Jesus -you’re amazing!!!!
I've been donating to Water Is Basic for over 10 years. They train WOMEN in the communities to maintain the wells and become pump mechanics. Women are the ones who gather water and they are being equipped with the skills to repair the wells. I like the women-driven solution!
Love the work of Water is Basic! We've been to South Sudan with them to see the work firsthand. It's incredible how they are impacting lives.
My wife and I have supported Water is Basic for over 15 years now. It's a lean organization that's 100% focused on providing clean water in South Sudan and DRC. Their small US staff and board of directors works with their local partners in Africa on the best ways to solve the water problem. I know Steve and Carrie, and they are some of the most genuine and loving people you could ask for. They are truly passionate about providing water and empowering women in these areas of Africa. Their work makes a huge difference to many, many people, and I'm proud to be a small part of their mission.
water is basic is a great cause! i highly recommend this profit, they not only bring clean water to communities but support women as they support their families in south Sudan!
Water is Basic is the real deal! This organization is run by passionate people who immerse themselves in their mission of empowering local men, and, in particular, the women of South Sudan to bring clean water and livelihoods to the communities they serve. I have seen their work with my own eyes on the ground and I can say this is a wonderful cause and run with extreme prudence and efficiency. This is fantastic value per donated dollar in my opinion.
What an amazing organization. Providing basic needs to communities and changing the lives of those in the community. I'm so happy to support them and their efforts. We can't all go to change lives, but we can support those that can. Thank you for all you do.
Great people doing great work! So thankful for all that they do to provide the most basic of needs to so many. Happy to know that Water is Basic is busy in so many ways.
Helping the most vulnerable in the world by supporting life changing training for women to support their communities and families. Small staff who operate an ethical and transparent organization.
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We first became acquainted with Water is Basic while participating in a fundraising run at our church. Since that time, we’ve been annual donors after seeing successful projects done in collaboration with local organizations that are empowering people in South Sudan and DRC to bring clean water to their communities. Water is Basic is unique in empowering local women to repair wells that are already in place. They have a small, passionate staff who works directly with local partners to bring about meaningful change.
I got to see Water is Basic in its infancy - many people gathering around the mission of getting clean water to families and communities. Such a basic need we all take for granted and wonderful to see the Church and others surround the people of South Sudan and this mission. Have also been to South Sudan and seen the mission firsthand. Love the way they work with locals to build the wells and manage them. Empowering on so many levels.
Our school partnered with Water is Basic as part of our service learning program. Carrie was wonderful in helping our students understand the impact of clean water access on communities and the importance of local community buy-in to sustain programs.
Our organization is honored to have a long-standing partnership with Water is Basic (WIB) to provide best-in-practice water solutions in East Africa. We support Water is Basic based on their exemplary work in some of the world's most challenging conditions, proven track record, cultural sensitivities, reliance on nationals for guidance, and quality relationships with residents and officials in each area where WIB serves.
--Roxanne Robbins, Tukutana
Water is Basic serves the most underserved nations, tackling the most difficult challenges. They're highly productive and well-connected, and they have a hands on, people-first approach. Their work building self-sustainable water systems for communities has empowered countless women and has given many communities the freedom from worrying about the most fundamental human need. Can't recommend this enough... if you have an opportunity to work alongside with, contribute to, or share about the mission of Water is Basic, take it!
We are so excited to partner with WIB for thr 3rd year in a row. Thank you for giving our students a genuine opportunity to have a positive impact on tomorrow's world. Carrie and Steve, thank you for supporting service learning at WBMS!
In September, I accompanied Steve and the Water is Basic team in South Sudan to witness the impact of women repairing water wells. One of the main issues in South Sudan is the lack of clean water. Water is a woman's issue (role). This means women and girls put themselves in danger as they walk 8-10 hours collecting dirty water that makes their families sick. It also means girls can't attend school. When girls are educated, we see faster poverty reduction, better maternal health, lower child mortality, greater HIV prevention, and reduced violence.
To tackle this problem, Water is Basic attempted something that has yet to be done: train women to repair the water wells. Since collecting water is a woman's role, it sounds like a no-brainer, but it isn't effortless to empower women who live in highly patriarchal societies. The Water is Basic team must go to the villages and cast the vision to the village elders. If the male elders decide yes, they select a woman from their village to be trained. Before proceeding, she must get permission from her husband, and many disapprove. If the husband agrees, the elders select a man from the village to assist her; women can only travel with the accompaniment of a man.
The most inspiring thing was to see how, in three short years, a small economic investment in women shifted the community's view of women. In a culture where the custom was for women to crawl on their knees to approach a man, they now have dignity and voice, serve in local leadership, and have financial agency. Now, they make enough money to build 5+ mud homes on their homestead, housing all their relatives. They send their kids to school and grow crops for food. Hearing them share how this has shifted their view of themselves was mesmerizing. "We have rights." "We are equals." "We are capable."
The men have also started accepting women as partners and responding with honor. We need our brothers to change how we treat women; male allyship is crucial to cultural shifts. These male team members are willing to put their "maleness" on the line to lift women (and the community.) We need men like this!
For decades, my life's work has been to reshape the view of women as Jesus intended. It's only been three years since Steve came up with the idea to train women in well-repair mechanics. Three short years, and on this day, I stood and prayed blessings upon one of their teams. What a privilege to lift Elizabeth and Gabriel to the Lord. They are examples of what happens when men and women choose to live out God's vision for his blessed alliance. I left Africa overflowing with gratitude and conviction. We have more work to do to change our view of women in our homes, churches, and workplaces.
But I also came home with a heart full of admiration for my husband. I've always known I'm married to a real-life Indiana Jones, but to see him in action was just… no words. He has served these people for twenty years. He loves them like family. The African leaders call him a Majokdit, a colorful black-and-white bull. It's a name they give to important people. No bull! On one of our visits, Steve knelt to greet one of the female mechanics. The counter-cultural posture was not lost on them. I loved watching how he moved so effortlessly between the African leaders and the American travelers. It's not easy to traverse two cultures at the same time. And to see this man, an enneagram eight, white privileged male leader, defer his leadership to the African team was … well, a lot like Jesus. Witnessing the incredible impact of empowering women has shown me that we can all make a difference in the world. It takes hard work, dedication, and the willingness to break down barriers, but it's worth it.
My wife and I have been involved with many non-profits, and I have been on the board of a few. I have personally witnessed the danger of us, the donors, deciding what the local people need, providing it, and patting ourselves on the back. For example, a hospital in West Africa was built with the goal of having a premier referral medical center, with the donors ultimately deciding, based on research, what specialties were needed. When it did not thrive, they involved the local doctors more and were shocked to find what the real needs of the community were. When they addressed those, the hospital thrived.
My wife and I volunteered to go with WIB to South Sudan and the DRC to see this NGO in action. I have never been so impressed, but several things really stuck out.
First of all, the ministry strategy of using dedicated local leaders who make decisions: the large ones and the day-to-day ones. They cared deeply about the teams of local people who worked together as mechanics to repair broken water wells. The repairs were tracked in the field with tablets, and the data produced was robust and meaningful.
Secondly, the strategy was clearly effective. We met a local doctor who noted that the incidence of water-borne infections skyrocketed when the local water well broke and then returned to a low level after the repair. The strategy was effective in elevating the local mechanics who were recognized as leaders in their villages. They were able to buy land and build huts for themselves and their extended family members. The strategy was flexible when the local conditions varied (water catchment systems attached to collect rainwater from roofs of buildings in the DRC, where there are 1.2 million internally displaced people living in camps. The strategy was self-sustaining, running more like a business than a charity.
Thirdly, with patriarchy on full display in East Africa, the fact that each team of one woman and one man working together, shoulder to shoulder as equals, was such a testimony to the true potential of women working with men, not being subordinate to them.
Lastly, I observed how WIB cares for random people who cross their path. Their finances are not stretched so thin that they are unable to meet unexpected needs: pay school tuition for one of their drivers who lost his job during COVID or contribute to another driver who lost his car borrowing money to pay for his wife's cancer treatment.
We will continue to support WIB with our time and our finances.
In September had I the chance to travel with Steve Roese and the local team to visit the work in Northern Bahr el Ghazel. I was blown away by the impact Water is Basic and the well repair mechanics are having in their local communities. As I watched the skilled mechanics fix a well near Aweil, it was hard to grasp the fact that this wasn’t normal.
The vast majority of people in South Sudan lack access to clean drinking water. Women and young girls walk hours a day to provide enough potable water for their families to survive, sacrificing their education, safety, and infant care in the process. While hundreds of wells and boreholes have been constructed across South Sudan, a crippling problem remains: wells break and there is no local mechanic expertise or supply chain to address this issue. Water Is Basic recognizes that this need can only be fully solved by engaging people directly impacted. The work to train local, female-led mechanic teams to repair wells is doing more than just solving a fundamental problem. It provides a way for local communities to take greater ownership over their future. Communities are willingly paying for the mechanics’ work and contributing to the cost of replacement parts. This is increasing the possibility of stability within the region but also creating jobs and the opportunity for men and women mechanics to work side-by-side to lift up their communities by providing one of the most fundamental needs: access to clean water.
I don’t think you could find a better example of what it looks like to be locally led and operated. I applaud Water is Basic and their program WESI (Woman’s Empowerment Solutions Initiative) for taking the “road less traveled” and focusing on developing sustainable solutions for the people in South Sudan.
What I appreciate most about Water is Basic is their commitment to working with local communities to find sustainable solutions to the water crisis. They understand that lasting change requires more than just providing a quick fix, and they are dedicated to empowering communities to take ownership of their own water resources.
Overall, I cannot recommend Water is Basic enough. If you are looking for a nonprofit organization to support that is making a real difference in the world, this is it. Their work is truly life-changing, and I am proud to support them in any way that I can.
There is no greater gift than the gift of clean, accessible water. Water truly is basic. I am honored to support this organization and those it serves.
I am so impressed for this dedicated group that is saving lives through clean water. I am especially excited for their womens program, that teaches them as technicians to build and repair their wells. This directly affects young women, taking them out of schools, where they have to track a full day for dirty water that can be harmful or even cause death.
We’ll done, Water is Basic! We’ll done!
Big things from a small, dedicated organization. This is not easy work, but this team relentlessly pursues the well-being of some of the most vulnerable people on our planet! Well done Water is Basic!
Water is Basic….and not everyone has access to it! The work this organization does is so important. I’ve done several events with them to raise money to support their efforts. I will continue to help provide clean water to those in need!
WIB has opened my eyes to a specific need I wasn't even aware of. I am involved with several local and domestic charities but I knew little of what went on outside of the US. Now I am proud to support this incredible group who brings clean water to the people of South Sudan. So many young people (girls in particular) miss out on education due to the need to obtain clean water. Now thanks to wells and filters their time is not spent walking 5+ miles for clean water, they can enjoy being children! I love how the mission of WIB also resonates with my kids, they can relate to the importance of clean, safe drinking water and were shocked to learn not every child has the same access. I am always in awe of the work WIB is doing and how impactful my donations are. To spread awareness and raise money for this worthy organization my family and I have enjoyed participating in a 5k and will soon be hosting our 2nd yard sale with all proceeds going directly to WIB!
Water is the critical resource in sustaining life, it is the first weapon drawn to fight disease, and ranked first in substances to bathe in. Providing this essential ingredient is the highest moral obligation and Water is Basic does it well.
I was introduced to Water is Basic through a friend and the more I learn, the more I love this organization and it’s hard working team of volunteers! We take a lot for granted here in the US -especially our infrastructure and simple necessities like clean water. Steve Roese and his team are helping our neighbors in Sudan, by training and educating them to purify their own water, repair broken wells, and increase access for others to clean water. What I love even more is that they are training women to become entrepreneurs and help support their families! Just an incredible operation!
I have been involved through my family with Water is Basic for nearly 10 years, having the opportunity to travel to site locations twice. Both of these trips have given a massive shift in personal perspective to the work going on in South Sudan and the DRC, and in my own general life.
The work happening in these countries are directly through citizens and community members for long lasting impact. Unlike so many organizations WiB makes sure the projects happening through the donors across the globe are sustainable by the people and for the people. I hope the work that has been going on not only continues but grows in these vulnerable parts of the world.
Water is basic is a true inspiration. Their passion, creative approaches to solutions, and wholehearted dedication to the region is nothing short of remarkable. The women’s well initiative is absolutely changing lives in such a powerful way. Steve has a true heart for the people of South Sudan and has built incredible trust, relationships, and support while empowering the community to solve their challenges.
I traveled to South Sudan with WIB to film and tell stories about the work they are doing with women and water issues there. They have done the work to truly understand the needs and how to work within the culture and community to help with those needs.
Their partners in SSD are top notch folks who are empowering women. I witnessed it first hand and heard countless stories from the local people about how WIB has helped them transform their communities.
It’s truly astounding to see what they have done so far with the funding they have. I can only imagine what they could do with more.
Steve, Executive Director of Water Is Basic, invited me to join him on a trip to Africa over 20 years ago and, in so doing, he opened up (literally) a whole new world for me. He created a real awareness of the joys, pains, needs, talents and lives of my fellow human beings on the other side of a planet we share. The same sun that shines on me, shines on them. My wife went to Sudan in 2005, specifically southern Sudan (which would later become South Sudan) and experienced first hand the people and the region that would serve, grow and benefit from the work that Water Is Basic would begin just a year later in 2006. For over 15 years Water Is Basic has been helping bring life, freedom, health and community to an area ravaged by the greatest atrocities that war brings. They have managed to do this, with tremendous success, by equipping, empowering and mobilizing the local community of women and men to work together to create sustainable systems for providing clean water to people in the villages throughout the region. Some of the unique things I appreciate and admire most about the way Steve and his team operate is the frequent communication of updates, the creative and numerous ways to help people get involved and the sharing of stories of how our giving is positively impacting real people, my brothers and sisters that share my sun only thousands of miles away. Thank you, Water Is Basic, for giving us the privilege, honor and power to make a difference in this world.
Water is Basic came into my life in 2017. I was telling a friend that I wanted to get more involved in helping to end the global water crisis. I had been donating to several organizations but wanted to feel more connected and see the impact I could contribute to. That friend told a friend and it got to Steve, the President of WiB who called me and right away provided that inclusive feeling. He was honest and informative about the work WiB does and how I could help. Since then, WiB has become a big part of my life and as of 2021, I am officially part of the board. My friends, family and network are helping me reach my 2021 fundraising goal of $7500 which I’ve worked with Carrie on a plan to put that towards repairing SIX wells! Carrie has been so helpful in mapping out this plan, helping promote the fundraising initiatives I’ve had and being so encouraging throughout! I love what WiB is doing and where they are headed. Knowing that women in South Sudan are operating the wells and running their own businesses in their communities is so inspiring. I am looking forward to continue watching, fundraising, and being part of the impacts being made thanks to Water is Basic, its team here and in South Sudan and Congo, and its supporters around the globe.
Water is Basic captured our hearts over 10 years ago. The approach of supporting local Sudanese to build up their own communities with water wells is not only life changing but sustainable. The Water is Basic team doesn't stop there. They require a well committee with equal number of men AND women to learn how to manage and repair their community water well. Together, they develop a revenue plan to keep the well functioning. Not only do the communities then have clean drinking water, but relieving the daily burden of walking for miles to retrieve water allows girls the opportunity to attend school. Talk about life changing and life saving work. This is what inspires us to be a part of Water is Basic.
Water is Basic Dallas has launched lives impacting project in my native State of Warrap, South Sudan. The project has empowered local women with skills of repairing broken water wells so that the rural communities have access to constant flow of clean drinking water. Local women are passionate about this project as they earn income from the community members for their Labour of well repairing and purchases of spare parts that Water Is Basic consistently has been supplying to Women Mechanics. Since the launch of project a year ago, the impact is noticeable from smiles of school children who have been attending classes consistently and not absent due to search of clean water because their nearby water well is broken, women who access water easily not walking for long distances to look for clean water and risk being raped by armed bandits as previously the case, no more children die of water borne diseases as it used to be when a water is broken and people go back to drink dirty water with germs contamination etc. Boreholes or water wells which broke now take just hours to repair unlike before when it take about 3 to 6 months to repair a well. I wish this can be extend other states of South Sudan. Investing in clean drinking water is investing in the future of thing youngest nation in the World-South Sudan.Thank you Water Is Basic and all your partners for being a lifeline in our communities in South Sudan. We can’t thank you enough. We receive your gift with gratitude. A Big THANK YOU once again. James Baak.
Water is Basic had worked in partnership with Women empowerment Solutions initiative ( WESI) in South Sudan as it has been funding most of water And Sanitation hygiene (WASH) activities of WESI. In regard to Funding received, WESI had trained and graduated fourteen well repair business mechanics that is comprised of six women and eight men who have managed to repair more than one hundred and thirteen wells to provide safe clean drinking water to 6000 house holds whose population is 33,000 people in the year 2021. The catalyst of this massive repair is the provision of spare parts by Water is basic which caused more than $45000. Water is basic had also bought a vehicle and seven motorcycle which are used to transport well spare parts to the field for repair work. Water is basic is funding the unique project which trains women on Well repair business. It is very rare to find a woman who is trained on well repair business in South Sudan but WESI in partnership with Water is basic has achieved it very extremely.
The update is done by : Simon Bhut Ghai
Program manager.
I have traveled to Africa with WiB and seen first hand the partnership they have cultivated with local leaders and the amazing work that is being done. I could not recommend highly enough this worthy organization. The integrity of the leadership is second to none, and the work is crucial.
This organization is best in class. I don’t think there is another model on earth that has given WOMEN the power to solve the water crisis themselves, especially in some of the hardest hit regions on earth. They’re absolutely 10/10.
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This organization is a legit as it gets. Their mission (water) is critical in the most literal sense of the word. I've interacted with WiB for years and they've proven to be one of the most authentic, strategic, and culturally-aware groups I've come across. Your money, time, blood, sweat, or tears are well spent with these guys/gals.
I’ve been giving to Water is Basic since it’s founding almost 15 years ago. They believe in local solutions for the people in South Sudan, which is great for those over there but also keeps administrative costs low in the US. In my opinion, there’s no better return on your giving than supporting clean water. It’s inexpensive and changes lives.
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My wife and I have been donors to Water is Basic since Day One. We knew we wanted to share our money with others who were in need, and the amount of impact you can have per dollar is really unmatched. I now serve on the Board and see on a daily basis how we operate efficiently to ensure as much of our funding goes straight to South Sudan as possible. Our children love it as well.
As the executive director who works with more than 400 non-proifts in the world, Water is Basic lands on top for both their internal integrity, social responsibility, vision for women and children, infrastructure, community mentoring and getting clean water to well over a million in South Sudan.
I have traveled with the organization and I was so struck by their story that I directed a documentary to tell their story and create a children's book to share the wider story of water needs around the world. Water is Basic is the pinnacle of what a non-profit was designed to accomplish both in the world and in its donors.
WiB has been an integral part of building and maintaining critical water infrastructure in South Sudan and the Central African region. Steve and the team at WiB have cultivated a community based approach to achieving clean drinking water in places where that luxury is scarce, and have turned over maintenance of the wells they drill to the communities themselves through important well maintenance training. WiB is doing important work in a place that desperately needs it, and are a well deserved recipient of my own and other’s donations.
I went to South Sudan with the water is basic team and saw the behind the scenes of what they do. So thankful for the experience to meet the team and see first hand the great work happening!
I have known of Water is Basic (WiB) since its inception and have been a supporter ever since as a member of Irving Bible Church. However, after I had an opportunity to visit several WiB sites in several countries in Africa and witnessing the impact this great organization is having on the lives of so many did I felt and saw the gospel impact of WiB. The gospel came alive. I genuinely love the vision of WiB and all they have done to not only provide water for God's children but to share the gospel.
Water is Basic=long-term commitment + African Leadership + enormous need +exceptional delivery. This enduring organization was birthed when the founder, in a visit to northwestern South Sudan, witnessed the death of several young children due to impure water, one of the largest killers of young South Sudanese children.
WIB, from its inception, pledged itself to compassionate action rather than empty promises. Water is Basic is more than a clean water provider (which is a noble objective). Community development, facilitators or participants of nation building conversations (grass roots and up), and responding to critical needs are just a few ways that make a difference. WIB dreams with South Sudanese who dream of a new South Sudan.
I’ve had the honor of knowing and spending time with the team behind Water is Basic for 5+ years and can attest to what an incredible group of humans there are working hard behind an important and impactful cause. Their dedication to the overall well-being of the people of South Sudan is nothing short of awe-inspiring, and so incredibly needed. I’ve attended multiple events put on by WiB, each so creatively crafted as a way to get people involved, educated and talking, while raising funds to develop new wells and additional needs in South Sudan. Truly an incredible foundation, ran by hardworking, talented individuals who are passionate about their contribution to our world. I’m lucky to know them!
Water is Basic creates opportunity for local people to solve local water issues. I’m so thankful for this group that empowers a nation and its people. Everyone deserves clean water, and water is basic is doing that responsibly and sustainably.
Steve and team are dedicated, caring people who just want everyone to have the basic human right to water fulfilled. They work tirelessly to keep drilling and maintenance going for the war weary people of South Sudan.
I give because I believe in the hearts of the team and i know from personal conversation that they are genuine. Your money will be well placed with Water is Basic.
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Hello, I'm obede mouse Emmanuel
Beneficiaries of WSB from south Sudan yei, i came in to contact with WIB about 6 years ago after my high school when i couldn't afford college, WSB offered me a job as a field Reporter for about 4 years and help by founding my college education in Uganda. Now iam a diploma graduate in ICT.
WSB doesn't only give water to the community but also restoring hope by rebuilding the broken dreams for families with less finans and academic challenges,
Thank you WSB for the opportunity!
Water is Basic is a terrific organization. Our family has partnered with them multiple times at our church and our church's summer camp, and we think they are doing amazing things for the people of South Sudan! Currently we have a personal fundraiser to repair a well, inspired by the fact that we are building our forever home and just recently had our own well dug. We realized how blessed we are to be able to afford and have immediate access to our own personal source of clean water, and wanted to partner with our friends and family to give the gift of LIFE through clean water to community in South Sudan.
I personally love how Water is Basic empowers and involves the local people of South Sudan. I think this model is the foundation of making lasting changing in a struggling community. Thank you, Water is Basic, for all you do!
Water is Basic works hard to provide life-giving water for the people of South Sudan. Empowerment is the key to transforming a country. My fiancé and I give to support a non-profit we are passionate about and to initiate a habit of giving that will start our future marriage off on the right foot. Thanks to all the hard workers and donors who make WIB possible.
We love Water is Basic. WiB & EPC are family to us, and we are honored to partner together for the future of our South Sudanese brothers and sisters. We have learned so much from their resiliency and look forward to how WiB continues to bring hope and life.
Amazing organization that works in one of the hardest hit areas by war, drought and famine for the past fifteen plus years.
Water is Basic has been one of the best examples of a group who took on a very difficult task, to bring clean water to a war torn nation, and continued to do so even when it was almost impossible to do so. When civil war broke out again in 2013, they not only continued their work but also worked very hard to bring peace, aid and reconciliation to the warring groups.
One of the main reason they were able to do this when many others left is their commitment and practice of having the right local leadership. From day one the leadership said that this is a South Sudanese project led by South Sudanese and they lived up to their word.
I and my family have supported Water is Basic since the beginning and will continue to do so and invite others to join us in this very worthy cause.
People in South Sudan are now drinking clean and safe water due to the work of water is Basic. Water is life and this has been a blessing to the people of South Sudan
Water is Basic does an amazing job serving the people of South Sudan who have suffered so much through recent conflict and are working so courageously to rebuild their lives. Water is Basic partners with Bishop Taban who is a local leader who knows how to get work done in South Sudan and how to have a positive, long-standing impact in the community. Each dollar donated is highly valued and accomplishes a great deal in terms of benefitting the people of South Sudan.
It has been incredible partnering with Steve Roese and his team at Water is Basic! Their heart to serve others less fortunate and the value they are adding to the communities in South Sudan is second to none. When I was considering where I could give back, as a nutrition coach, not only is water Basic, but it is essential for good health. This was something I could stand behind and truly make a difference. What I love best is the personal touch that The Water is Basic community has given me and it has made me truly feel part of something bigger than myself! I look forward to furthering the mission and to one day bring my family to visit and serve the communities we’ve built wells for. Maybe even sampling a Cardio Drumming COREBLAST class for them. ~ I’m sure they would love it!
WIB simply saves lives and restores communities in South Sudan.
I love hire they organize to deliver clean water by empowering locals to drill and repair wells - it’s sustainable and I feel it’s super cost effective. That’s why I make water is basic part of my giving plan every year.
Water is Basic is saving lives. I had the opportunity to travel in South Sudan and meet some of the people whose lives have been impacted by water is basic. Not only did the women there talk about how important it is for their children to have clean water, they talked about how amazing it is to have healthy skin. They no longer have sores and dry spots because of unclean water. It is great to know that an organization such as this can be so world changing.
We have been with Water Is Basic in Yei, South Sudan and spoken to the people who now have clean water, because of Water Is Basic. They have drilled wells in good times and during bad times, they are committed to the people. They teach and train people in well management and what it means to have ownership of your own water.
I have actually seen this work on the ground! Grass roots & performed by locals!
Your funds go far here & straight to answering the very real need of clean water for those who wouldn't have it otherwise! Everyone deserves access to clean water! Can’t say enough about the impact they are having, actually saving lives!
Transparent, well organized, and dedicated in good and bad times organization. Works with local people teaching and training them to both drill and manage the wells. Believes in ownership and commitment of the local people to the water well projects.
When my sister went to boarding school for the first time, she was always ill. She always had the flu, the cough, stomachache, or she'll just be in the hospital without a clue to what her illness was. A few months in, it was realized that she was always ill because the water was different. Now in Kigali, the water is clean. But she was far away upcountry and apparently most of the time the water wasn't clean.
So, one day the President and the Executive Director of Water Is Basic were on their way to DRC for another project of clean water provision and stopped by our home in Kigali to visit. They gave my sister a water filter and taught her how to use it. She was never ill like that again.
My other sister also went to boarding school a year later and Water is Basic gave her a filter which helped her a lot.
Now for my family living in the city where water is clean, what is always hard to obtain is pure drinking water. Most people don't drink pure drinking water because the water can be expensive. So, on another visit from the president of Water is Basic and the executive director, they brought us a filter for drinking water. We didn't even ask for it, they just brought it. The president said that the filter could clean the dirtiest of waters, which turned out to be true. But what I loved the most is that when we use the filter to prepare drinking water, the water that comes out of it is the most delicious water I've ever taken. Water isn't supposed to have a taste but somehow it does, and this is the tastiest of them all. So, now that we have the purifier, I don't have to worry about suffering from the cold ever again. All thanks to Water is Basic!
I traveled with Steve Roese of Water Is Basic to Yei River State, South Sudan in February 2019, and my experience is one that I continue to treasure and share. Steve and the Water Is Basic team have established trustworthy relationships within the community and state evidenced by the open arms reception received. Their work in borehole drilling is critical in a region that has experienced internal displacement as a result of decades of conflict yet, Water Is Basic remained (and were active) in the region during periods of conflict. That level of commitment to include the employment and empowering of South Sudanese, was more than reason enough for me to support Steve and Water Is Basic. I am proud to have made my first of many trips to engage South Sudan with this dedicated and proven organization. It is my sincere hope that anyone or organization seeking to support a leader and team doing the work in the world's youngest nation would do so by donating to Water Is Basic! The honor and humility with which Steve and his team demonstrate in South Sudan is reflective of authentic service. I gained a fuller perspective, family and friends.
I have worked with Water is Basic in numerous capacities over the past five years: I have planned events with their board; I have spent time with their leaders; and I have even traveled to South Sudan in partnership with the organization for a church mission trip.
I could write a ton on why I love Water is Basic. I'll just leave my top three reasons why I love them here.
1) They will do whatever it takes to accomplish their mission. I have never encountered a nonprofit that works so hard to accomplish their objectives. They love South Sudan, and long to see the country rebuilt. This drive, motivated by compassion, is evident in the big and small operations of the nonprofit. As far as big things, they are always thinking strategically about long-term vision for rebuilding South Sudan. As far as small things, they are incredibly responsive and helpful in planning trips and events. They get things done.
2) Water is Basic empowers the South Sudanese. The nonprofit was co-founded by Bishop Elias Taban, a prominent South Sudanese leader, and they employ a number of South Sudanese. This is not a tourist nonprofit; they are NOT a Western organization that wants to dump money, feel better about themselves, and then leave. It is in Water is Basic's DNA to empower the South Sudanese to build their own solutions in their own country. Because of this, Water is Basic makes for better long-term partners, because they are interested in long-term growth in South Sudan instead of just short-term, sticker solutions to complex problems.
3) They make giving to a good cause easy, approachable, and cool. I have worked with Water is Basic to plan fundraisers for their organization. They are top-notch at planning events that people WANT to go to. They do not operate on guilt-inducing sales pitches; instead, they put on events where people have fun, learn about South Sudan, and leave confident that they have made a difference (whether they have given $1 or $10,000). If you're looking to mobilize millennials to give to a good cause, you should check out Water is Basic.
So yes, Water is Basic is the best. I highly recommend giving to them and partnering with them.
This is an incredibly passionate and well run organization with a heart for community development around the wells they build. They provide the resources needed for a community to maintain their wells for years to come. You will never regret getting involved with Water is Basic.
I've enjoyed getting involved in multiple ways -- whether it's fundraising, helping edit a report, or volunteering at an event. The values of Water Is Basic are upheld in every context, and the crux of the matter has remained "the main thing" -- getting life-saving water to those in need in a country whose people have been ravaged by war and conflict. The team at WIB is led by locals in South Sudan, which really sets it apart from so many other water relief organizations because it means it's a sustainable model that restores dignity and a sense of South Sudanese ownership unmatched by other models. It's also the kind of methodology that heals a multitude of wounds, wounds that go way beyond water.
Love working with Water is Basic and sharing their passion for clean water with my students. I appreciate all they do to help people around the world and inspire our students each day!
WHAT A FANTASTIC ORGANIZATION! Our middle school sustainability club paired up with Water is Basic when our club members decided they wanted to do something to help the water crisis. Working with this organization was a fantastic experience and they have been so encouraging and helpful through the whole process! We have been fundraising since March of this year, and this morning we announced to our club members that we raised enough funds to repair six wells. THEY WERE BEYOND EXCITED! We can't wait to see how lives will continue to be changed through this wonderful nonprofit!
Water is Basic is thrilling to be part of. The relationship with the team in South Sudan is unique and donors can feel so connected to the life-saving work being done on the other side of the globe through constant pictures, reports, and firsthand stories from friends and colleagues who travel there to see it with their own eyes. Water is Basic has a passionate and specialized team working hard to involve donors in meaningful, purposeful work in any way they can. It's a great way to spend your giving dollars knowing that they will be put to work with as little overhead as possible.
Water is basic provides clean water to the new nation of South Sudan and does that through committed partnerships with leaders in the South Sudanese community. They are faithful partners to the people of South Sudan. When you give to Water is Basic, you empower the people of a new nation and give them peace and stability as well as clean water.
I have been impressed with this organization since learning about it. They strive to help the people of South Sudan help themselves. They provide the funding for the South Sudanese to drill and repair wells so that the community can focus on other needs aside from the basic necessity of clean water. My family's involvement has been extremely positive. The response from the leadership in this organization and the gratitude shown has been outstanding.
I heard Steve Roese from Water is Basic speak at my church in 2014 and was grieved by the staggering statistics about the severe need for clean water in South Sudan. I was impressed by the way they work with the Sudanese people to drill their own wells and train them how to maintain them. They are committed to teach them to be self sustaining. Steve came to speak again this year at my church and shared about the bombings in South Sudan and all the displaced families running for their lives with no clean water and even worse, some of their family members and friends have died in the bombings. Water is Basic is now helping in a profound way by sending Sawyer water filters that attach to any bucket and filter out 99.?(some crazy amount) of all pathogens that cause disease, and better yet, after purifying 300 gallons of water, you only need to rinse the filter in clean water and use it again, never having to replace it. Water is Basic is trending with the times, and does what is needed to get the job done. They have a campaign to get as many of these water filter systems into the hands of the Sudanese as soon as possible. For a mere $20, you can save many lives. I was also inspired by his words that said, "Don't get celebrity paralysis; One person in the hand of God can make a profound difference."
"We have so much in the US and I am very thankful. As an artist my passion is to use the gifts and resources I have to do fundraisers for those less fortunate than myself. I create and sell artwork and use my culinary skills to make soup and gourmet popcorn for this great cause. I want my small investment to make a difference! Water is Basic is a great organization to link arms with to transform lives with the gift of clean water."
Water is Basic has been an absolutely amazing and motivating factor in my life. In highschool, I created a club based on fundraising to build water wells in Africa. We ended up partnering with Water Is basic and have been working with them for years (the club is still active even though I am in college now). They are easily accessible and genuinely care about making a difference in the world. I love their system of helping the people of South Sudan help themselves, training them to build wells and creating boards of villagers to be responsible for each of part. I genuinely love and believe in this nonprofit
I had observed the intensity of Water is Basic's (WiB) response to the immediate need for clean water in South Sudan following the Comprehensive Peace Treaty in 2006. In very little time, the organization was funded, built, running efficiently, and providing clean water to those in the greatest need. Even more impressive was the fact that it was being administered by the South Sudanese, making it very effective.
After witnessing the need and seeing how effectively WiB responded, and the amazing impact on the people, I chose to volunteer, go to South Sudan numerous times, and ultimately join the board.
In a time of war and famine where many relief organizations are focusing elsewhere, WiB remains deeply involved and is literally saving lives daily.
My name is Lisa Primavera and I have had the privilege of working with Water Is Basic through my church, 1 st Church Coral Springs Florida. In November of 2016 , I co- led a group of runners and walkers in the Ft Lauderdale Half marathon and 5K. Our group trained for several months during which we raised awareness of the water crisis in South Sudan. The runners and walkers collected donations from friends,family and church members through a filter campaign. It was an amazing experience to be able to help our brothers and sisters abroad. We are looking forward to partnering with WIB through programs like local running events,Vacation Bible School and other campaigns this year as well.
I count it a privilege and an honor to have met Steve Roese and Bishop Elias Taban, co-founders of Water is Basic. The picture you see is an oil painting of Bishop Taban affixed to a jerry can – what the women carry on their heads to fetch water. It’s big and heavy even empty! How do they do that? I bought my jerry can at a WIB fundraiser a few years ago and it now sits right inside the front door of our home. My husband and I are retired on a fixed income, but we always have change in our pockets. The jerry can is the perfect place to collect not only our change, but many times that of a guest or even a grandchild. The last time we counted the change, it came to $85 and the jerry wasn’t even half full! We had to empty it because we could hardly lift it! Now, that may not sound like a lot to many people, but think what it can do in Africa! That’s almost 6 Sawyer Filters! Just from change! Thank you WIB and God bless you for all you do for our brothers and sisters in Africa! And thank you for the opportunity to feel like a part of your team! Good job!!
The mission of Water is Basic is to put clean, safe water within reasonable access for every person in South Sudan. In 2015 I traveled to South Sudan to see their work first hand and met the South Sudanese Water is Basic employees. They are key to the sustainability of this organization. We visited villages impacted by newly repaired wells managed by a local committee of men and women. During that trip we also visited Goma, DRC where the solution there was to get water filtration systems into homes and to build rain catchment systems to prepare for the dry season. With boots on the ground, Water is Basic continues to do work in the midst of the crisis in South Sudan. Currently we are working to get 10,000 water filtration systems to people on the move because of the conflict. I believe in the work of this organization so much that after fundraising for years, I'm honored to join the team full time.
We have had the good fortune of working with WIB for almost 3 years. As part of that experience, I had the opportunity to visit South Sudan with the WIB team and see their impact first hand - it was simply amazing. They have truly built a locally led solution to a local problem - clean water. From the moment you land in Yei, South Sudan you see the impact of their work. WIB helped construct the welcome facility at the airport, the wells that service the community next to the airport, and everyone in town seems to be aware of the great work of WIB and EPC. During my trip, we had the opportunity to repair multiple wells in the region, including one community where they had not had access to clean water for almost 2 years! The smiles on the children's faces and the joy that the simple gift of clean water can bring is indescribable. Please join us in supporting this great organization! - GIVN
WiB has been in the game with South Sudan for 10 years. Because the drilling teams are native South Sudanese, they continue drilling and repairing wells even during war and famine. WiB remains devoted to helping the people of South Sudan have access to life-saving clean water. I have personally been to South Sudan to see their work and have been involved with numerous fund raisers and can testify that WiB is a first rate organization.
I have had multiple interactions with Water is Basic- from donating, to asking questions, to even visiting and meeting the team and every time I did I was always impressed and always came away wanting more connection and involvement. The leadership is clearly passionate and the mission is easily understood yet full of huge challenges because the need is so great- the way great non-for-profits should be.
I would recommend Water is Basic (and I always do) to anyone as one of the best organizations around. I give to it, volunteer for it and share the stories for it.