On April 7th, I'm turning 21.

For many, this is a milestone birthday; it is the legal drinking age in the States and a rite of passage in adulthood that many celebrate with toasts and drinks.

Millions of people in the world never see their 21st birthday, or even their 5th. The reason for this is the water crisis our world faces; these millions of people have no access to clean water, and they walk miles and hours everyday to gather water they know will make them sick.

This year, I want to change things up. For my 21st, I'm asking not for gifts, but for donations to a water project in Ethiopia. This water project will give a village access to clean water and teach them about sanitation and the importance of clean water.

I'm asking for $21 (or any amount people are willing to give, every penny counts!) from everyone I know -- and every penny of the money raised will go directly to fund clean water projects. Even better, charity: water will show us exactly which projects we funded once they've been fully completed (which takes about 18 months). We will receive photos and GPS coordinates. That means we'll be able to see the communities we've helped!

My goal is to raise $10,000 by March 31st, 2013.

This year what I want for my birthday is to give the gift of clean water to a community. When I can drink, so can they!!!

I'm going to do my part too; This winter horse show circuit between January and my birthday I'm pledging all my prize money to my campaign. Please join me in reaching my goal!

Love,
Mahala