WHY WATER? Right now, 1 billion people on the planet don't have access to clean, safe drinking water. 1 billion…that's one in six of us! Shocking, huh? And, did you know that 80% of all disease in Africa is due to a lack of clean, safe drinking water and basic sanitation. It’s true. But, even more shocking, 30,000 people will die this week because of unsafe water. 90% of these deaths will be children under 5 years old.

WHY CHARITY: WATER? Founded by our good friend, Scott Harrison, Charity: Water is a non-profit organization that provides clean, safe drinking water to developing nations. How does Charity: Water do this? First, Charity: Water raises money. Then, 100% of monies raised goes directly to digging sustainable, clean water wells for areas of greatest need – like much of Ethiopia. That’s right, 100%.

RESULTS. $5,000 will fund 1 well that provides fresh water to 250+ people. Think about that. $5,000. 1 well. 250+ human beings. Impressive.

OUR CHALLENGE. We are getting ready to run (and walk) the Thanksgiving Day Race in Cincinnati this year. All of the Hillenbrand adults and 20 grandchildren will be wearing Charity: Water shirts and participating in the race to raise money to build wells in Africa. Once we raise the money, we are going to work with Charity: Water to build wells in the areas of greatest need. This is our call to action – we would like you to help us build as many wells as possible and truly give thanks for all that we’ve been given by helping people of greatest need live long and productive lives.

So, if you get a chance, please check out the rest of the Charity: Water site to learn about the amazing impact they are having on a global scale. It's not just about water. It's about saving lives, empowering women, educating children, and building communities for a brighter future. And then, if the Thanksgiving Spirit moves you, please donate and let’s build some wells together!

God bless! Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!