Why did I give up my birthday?
Last year, I left New York and traveled to 12 different countries over a period of six months. During that time, I experienced some of the most incredible generosity of my life. People who had very little to give, invited me into their homes to share meals, their stories and their lives. I was humbled by their acts of kindness and grace and wanted to do something to help give back.

As I neared my 30th birthday, it seemed like the most obvious choice in the world. What better way to celebrate such a significant milestone in my life, than by raising money to help others! So this year, instead of gifts, I'm asking for donations to mycharity: water campaign--taking something small like my birthday and turning it into something wonderful.

Why water?
Right now, almost a billion people on the planet don't have access to clean, safe drinking water. That's one in eight of us. Unsafe water and lack of basic sanitation cause 80% of diseases and kill more people every year than all forms of violence, including war. Children are especially vulnerable, as their bodies aren't strong enough to fight the many water-borne illnesses.

I feel extremely privileged to be a part of the charity: water team and to help support our efforts with the September Campaign to bring clean and safe drinking water to the people of the Central African Republic. My heart was particularly moved by the story of the Bayaka people, who are struggling to find a new way of life as their forest homes are being destroyed by the logging industry. There are easy solutions to help. charity: water uses 100% of public donations to directly fund sustainable water solutions in areas of greatest need. Just $20 can give one person clean water for 20 years!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!

Love,
Sarah