July 30, 2007

Of Ice Water and Tents




"We are raising awareness of the water crises in Africa."

We said this phrase thousands of times over 11 hours at HyVee, a local grocery store while handing out flyers with information regarding the crises, also offering cups of ice cold water.

Our simple goal was to raise enough money to build a clean water well in Africa in cooperation with Blood: Water Mission. We staffed three water cooler tables, and then camped in the parking lot over night. Between those working, camping, and providing food, more than 40 people were involved in the project.

There were some interesting responses to our invitation...

"I don't drink water ever!"
"I'm more concerned about the water problem in Las Vegas."
"They can take care of themselves."

Our three standard responses:

"Every 15 seconds, a child dies from lack of access to clean water."
"Every flush of the toilet uses about the same amount of water as the average African uses on a daily basis."
"Where you live should not determine whether or not you live."

However, at the end of the day and through the generosity of new friends, dollar by dollar, we raised $1800. We now have enough to sponsor a well in Africa.

We are already dreaming of doing it again next year.

6 comments:

Cat said...

I am very Proud of you all!!!
WTG!!!

Stacey said...

Ethan, by far my favorite project my kids have done this year. Very well orchestrated. And....Ethan....you need to get over to my site this afternoon, you are an award winning blogger now. xoxo

Stacey said...

Don't let this go to your head and stuff, okay?

Cat said...

Congrats on the Award Ethan!!!!

Byron K. Borger said...

You know, these pictures look kinda ordinary. Just normal people, kids even, in a rather customary tent, by a parking lot outside a grocery store. Followed by a blog about getting cheap fireworks, and eating shaved ice.

This is extraordinary because you seem so down to Earth ordinary. No big media blitz, nothing too slick. This is the real deal. I am honored to have heard about your great work, and praise God for these small gestures, making big changes. I think Jesus called 'em "mustard seeds." Keep on!

Anonymous said...

Ethan,

Great Project! I too live in KC and am linking up with the Blood:Water Mission people to develop a well focused project here in KC.

I would love to talk with you about perhaps working together on a project. I did not see anywhere I could send you an e-mail directly so I am leaving a comment.

Would you please contact me at my e-mail address? davidhiggkc@gmail.com

Thanks,

David Higginbotham