Today I'm turning 29. I've been talking about "turning 30" for a long time, and it's getting closer!

But millions of people don't live to see their fifth birthdays, because they don't have access to clean, safe water. So, I'm celebrating my birthday in a new way.

I'm asking for $29 from everyone I know -- and every penny of the money raised will go directly to fund clean water projects in developing nations. Even better, the charity: water site will show us exactly which projects we funded once they've been fully completed. That means we'll be able to see the communities we've helped!

I met the person that started charity:water this summer, his story is amazing(ly bizarre) and his mission huge...to end the water crisis before he dies. I promised to donate my birthday (along with essentially everyone else that meets him!).

My goal is to raise $500 during the week of my birthday, December 4th. Please join me to make this birthday count.