Birthday Wish: A Celebration of Water

by Tania Reuben on September 16, 2011

Charity Water: A Birthday Wish

I’ve officially recovered from all the fun EVERYONE had at Lil’ Diva’s 6th Birthday Party, and I’m thrilled to share it was a great success.

Lil Diva asked for a Pool Party, and in an effort to bring more meaning to the occasion, we decided to take advantage of our water theme and raise money for Charity Water.

Lil Diva Celebrates

The invites were sent, the pool glimmered and the sun was out for what promised to be one of the last lazy days of summer. We set a goal to raise $1000 for Charity Water.

The Cause

We chose Charity Water largely because it fit with our pool party theme, but there were other good reasons too! 100% of all funds raised to go well building projects. They cover their administration costs through other means.

Why is Clean, Safe Water Such an Important Cause?

Diseases from unsafe water and lack of basic sanitation kill more people every year than all forms of violence, including war. Children are especially vulnerable, as their bodies aren’t strong enough to fight diarrhea, dysentery and other illnesses.

90% of the 30,000 deaths that occur every week from unsafe water and unhygienic living conditions are of children under five years old. Many of these diseases are preventable. The UN predicts that one tenth of the global disease burden can be prevented simply by improving water supply and sanitation.

The Plan

We carefully worded the invitation, inviting guest to consider a donation to Charity Water, without obligating them to do so. Now… I’m keenly aware that my child is no more altruistic than the next, she wanted presents, cake and friends. While the idea of raising money for Charity Water wasn’t her idea – it did teach a valuable lesson.

The response from guests was heartwarming!

“Happy Birthday! what a fantastic idea.”

“Happy Birthday, Lil Diva, and thank you for being so generous and helping others!”

“You’re the coolest! Great idea helping the villages.”

We reached out to brands, as a family we made a $380 donation to Charity Water for items that were provided for the party that we didn’t have to purchase.

Episencial donated $125, and sent bubble bath for everyone – if you need a super pure baby skincare products be sure to check them out!
Mabel’s Labels sent the cutest individually named loot bag label packs
The California Strawberry Commission sent 42 pounds of strawberries
Alexia Foods sent some sweet potato fries & onion rings
Rudi’s Bakery sent bread products for the Barbecue!