Over 780 million people WORLDWIDE are without clean drinking water. Here's my campaign to help turn that around.

I'm turning 22 on March 27th, and this year I want to try my best to make a difference in the lives of people who need it most. Instead of asking for presents, I want to give something.

Many of us have no idea what it's like to be thirsty. We have plenty of water to drink anywhere we go. It is no wonder why it can be easy to overlook the fact that nearly 11% of the world's population, over 780 million people, are without access to safe and clean drinking water. Every day, 5,000 kids die from water-related illnesses before they turn 5. In a year, more than 3.4 million people die from water, sanitation, and hygiene-related causes, 99% of which occur in developing and third-world countries. More people have cell phones than access to a toilet. Taking a 5-minute shower uses more water than an average person in a developing country slum uses for an entire day.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are simple solutions like drilled wells, spring protections and BioSand Filters that help provide clean water to communities around the world. I started this fundraising campaign to help charity: water build these types of projects around the world, and I'm looking for anyone who can help me.

Since I am turning 22 this year, I have set my goal to only $2,200, $100 for each year I've been alive. It is not a large amount to raise. If 100 people donate just $22 each, I will have reached my goal. If 200 people donate just $11 each, I will have reached my goal. Please donate to my campaign -- any amount you can give is a huge help for the men, women, and children around the world who desperately need access to clean water.

100% of the money you donate will be used to build clean water projects, and when they’re complete, charity: water will send us photos and GPS coordinates so we can see the exact community you and I helped.

I have kick started it by donating $22 myself!