About
charity: water is a nonprofit organization bringing clean and safe water to people around the world, with the goal of ending the global water crisis. Founded in 2006 by Scott Harrison, the organization is known for its 100% model, under which all public donations go directly to fund clean water projects while private donors cover operating costs. Its legal name is Charity Global Inc (EIN 22-3936753), and it is headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee.
Mission
charity: water works to bring clean and safe water to people around the world and to end the global water crisis. The organization points to 696 million people who still need their first day of clean water.
What they do
- Funds sustainable, community-owned water projects built with experienced local partners in the countries where it works.
- Operates the 100% model: 100% of public donations go directly to fund clean water projects, with operational expenses covered by private donors.
- Tracks and verifies every completed project with photos and GPS coordinates, making project locations publicly viewable.
- States that every $40 donated can end one person's walk for water.
History
charity: water was founded in 2006 by Scott Harrison, who left a decade-long career promoting nightclubs in New York City to start the organization. It began in a small apartment and has grown into a global movement for clean water.
Scale and impact
According to figures published on its website, charity: water has funded 209,241 water projects that will serve 21,641,908 people, working across 29 countries.
Financials
According to IRS Form 990 data compiled by ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, Charity Global Inc (EIN 22-3936753) reported total revenue of $96,818,300 and total assets of $175,942,434 for fiscal year 2022, and total revenue of $101,611,139 for fiscal year 2021. The organization holds a Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, Top-Rated status from CharityWatch, and BBB accreditation, according to its website.