We are privileged. Many of us have no idea what it's like to endure the torture of life without the bare essentials, especially water. If we're thirsty, simply grab a glass from the cabinet, put some ice in, and switch the faucet on. However, it's not that easy for developing countries. So many people have to walk for miles to get access to dirty, contaminated water. But, together, we can make a difference.

For my seventeenth birthday this year, I have decided to pledge my birthday. Instead of receiving gifts that children in third world countries would only dream of getting, I want to make their dreams come true - having water. With just $30, you can help a single person have clean water. My goal is to help 25 precious people, and here are 17 reasons why:

1. I fell in love with this organization. It is truly the most genuine, kind-hearted, and life-changing charity.
2. I have always had a desire to do as much as I could to help the less fortunate and pledging my birthday is a perfect opportunity to do so.
3. After I watched a video my mom had sent me on this charity, it brought tears to my eyes. I wanted to do everything in my power to contribute.
4. Women in Africa, walk nearly 40 billion hours a year, just to get water. The less walking they have to do, the more education and income they can receive.
5. My ultimate goal in life is to do good and be happy. This gets me one step closer to both.
6. People in developing countries are just as deserving as any one of us.
7. No one should have to suffer the burden of not having the essential element that quite literally makes up the entire Earth.
8. My sister, a.k.a. my hero, will always be my inspiration to be a better person, due to her overwhelming amount of kindness and willingness to sacrifice for others. I strive to be like her.
9. Life is short, make it worth while and help others do the same.
10. Not a single living thing can live without water.
11. I have way more than enough - clothes, food, technology, a house, a car - so why not share some of my privileges?
12. Spread good and sprinkle kindness (the best way to live!!).
13. Charity: Water has given over seven million people clean water and funded over 24,000 water projects in 25 countries.
14. If I die tomorrow, I want to know I made an impact in this crazy world we live in.
15. Polluted and unsafe water kills more people every year than any type of war or violence.
16. This organization makes so much out of so little. It makes the world a better place.
17. I know I can count on the people whom I love and appreciate to help.

I am beyond blessed to have this opportunity and hope you can share this experience with me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.