Mali, one of the poorest countries in the world, has a slew of developmental challenges: two-thirds of its inhabitants live in poverty, HIV is destroying its social fabric and medical services are woefully inefficient.

The most important first step in helping these people lead productive, happy lives is IMPROVING THEIR ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER. Roughly half of the countries' population subsist without clean water, which leads to high rates of disease. (20% of children in Mali die before they are five years old; most of their diseases are precentable with clean water.)

As Associate Director for 100 Friends, a global philanthropy non-profit, I will be travelling through Mali in order to donate funds raised to help local and international organizations that are helping build water wells and repair broken hand pumps. I will be supporting these local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with the funds raised from your generous contribution. These projects are also building school latrines and teaching local communities the importance of keeping their hands and food preparation clean. With a Masters in International Development and years of experience in global philanthropy, I am well-qualified to carry out this mission.

More info on our work is available on our website: www.100friends.org

Nothing is more important for one's health and well-being than clean water - please help as we transform these peoples' lives with clean, healthy drinking water!