Two years ago I gave up my September birthday to a new-to-me non-profit named charity: water, little did I know this would eventually turn out to be a life-changing event.

Through this process I learned the full extent of the shocking truth of the world's water crisis. I learned that close to one billion people lack access to clean water. I learned that unsafe water and lack of basic sanitation caused 80% of diseases and killed more people each year than all forms of violence (including war). And I learned that via charity: water and their 100% model (with every dollar heading directly to water projects) that $20 can give one person clean water for 20 years.

And today, I'll make this mission the purpose of my work life as I join charity: water's executive team as Director of Digital Engagement and Fundraising.

There are a host of reasons I'm ecstatic to join the charity: water team, and not the least the amazing people I'll be working with, led by our Founder Scott Harrison.

If I had to narrow my motivation down to 3 key items though, it would be the following:

1. The Cause: 1 in 8 people in the world lack access to clean water. It's a problem that can be solved with the right mix of ingenuity, hard work and cold hard cash. It's a gigantic task, but there's few out there more worthy of taking on: the gift of water can truly transform lives.

2. The Model: Every single cent donated to charity: water is used to fund water projects. No waste. Administrative costs are covered by other donors: everything from our team's wages to the ink in the office printer. No confusion. It's a new approach to charity.

3. Proven Digital Innovation: A website that looks better than nearly any corporate. Every well that is built is marked on Google Maps. 1.3 million people follow them on Twitter, they were the focus of the first Twestival and they're even held up as an example by Twitter for other causes. In short, this non-profit is a true digital organization.

And the best part of all of this? YOU can help.

Make a Donation

The most important element for the millions without water is access to your money. As I said, as little as $20 can give one person clean water for 20 years. The first thing I've done as a charity: water employee is to "eat my own dogfood" and launch my own fundraising campaign: so if you were going to say congratulations remember there's no better way to do so than by contributing $20 in my name! (and please do report back on the donation process - there's nothing like feedback).