It's not too late to join the surge - almost 1000 Rotarians have joined WASRAG to support D.K. Lee's challenge to reduce child mortality by bringing safe water and sanitation to the millions lacking these fundamental needs for life and livelihood.

 

To see where we're going, take a look at the Executive Summary of WASRAG's Strategic Plan http://wasrag.org/downloads.php?reports=111

 

If you have the time, the full document is available in the same area of the website.  This roadmap provides a focus for moving forward in an organized, disciplined, and ultimately more successful approach to sustainable water and sanitation programs. 

 

And the impact of WASRAG's approach is seen beyond Rotary.  The United States Agency for International Development (US AID) has formed a three-year multi-million dollar alliance with Rotary to implement water and sanitation programs.  Initially the program will pilot in Ghana, the Dominican Republic and the Philippines.  Subsequent initiatives could expand to a number of other countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia where Rotary and US AID share common goals.  Go to the WASRAG website to view the FAQs on this exciting new development!  http://wasrag.org/news.php?news=26
 

 

Then, just this week, WASRAG has been approached by the Global Water Challenge to participate in a major global event to be held in September 2009.  "Live Earth" is pulling together a mega-event to promote awareness about the global water crisis and to raise funds to support WASH programs.  You may remember that Live Earth organized a global concert in July 2007 to raise awareness of climate change.  This upcoming event will be equally ambitious.  A website with more information will be available shortly and we will notify you immediately.

 

A major feature of the Live Earth event will be a global "run".  The first 6 kms will start in Fiji where Rotarians under the leadership of Warwick Pleass have already begun a major water program.  The last will be a 6 km run in Hawaii as the sun sets.  Participatory fundraising will be an integral part of the program.

 

As you can see there are huge opportunities for WASRAG and Rotarians everywhere.  We have already demonstrated through the Polio National Immunization Days an ability to mobilize communities.  We will now be able to harness those same skills to resolve the water and sanitation crisis.

 

Charles Clemmons