Last month, I wrote about my time at WDS and mentioned Charity:Water. Today, it’s my 25th birthday. And this year, I’m giving up my birthday for charity. I’ve set a slightly ridiculous goal of $500 for charity, which would provide clean water for 25 people. Below, I’m adding my charity:water bio and photo. You can see my campaign page here and donate whatever you can spare.

Above is a picture of me, turning five. That’s my little brother to the left. I opened presents (including a ballerina barbie!) and I was happy and safe and secure. On August 15th, I’m turning 25. At first, I couldn’t believe it. It seems just yesterday, I was carefree (and tan!) and five. But on July 7th, I heard about charity: water. And I found out that millions of people don’t live to age five. The age I am in that photo above. And why? Because they don’t have access to clean, safe water. So, this year, I’m asking for something special for my birthday. I want to raise $1,000 for charity: water. That will provide 50 people with clean water. I’m asking 40 of my friends to donate $25 (or more!) and change 50 lives. Every penny of the money raised will go directly to fund clean water projects in developing nations. Even better, charity: water will show us exactly which projects we funded once they’ve been fully completed (which takes about 18 months). That means we’ll be able to see the communities we’ve helped! Please join me to make this birthday count. Please join me to change – and save – lives. Let’s help more people reach age five – and 25.