The year 2020 has been everything but normal. Over Auburn University's Spring Break, the Nation was escalating to the peak of the global pandemic, COVID-19. The University decided to transition to online classes for the rest of the semester, ultimately cutting Auburn for Water's year short. Our biggest fundraising push, Water Week, was schedule for late March-- which unfortunately had to be cancelled.
Fundraising on a college campus can be difficult, but this year showed our organization many new challenges. The US economy is starting to fall into a recession, with many Americans losing the opportunity to work and provide for their families. Many people are struggling to provide for themselves, and let alone give to provide needs for others.
Through all this, times like these remind us of our humanity. A global crisis like this not only makes people empathize with others, but we start the learn the impact small moments can make on our lives. We realize that no matter how much we raise as an organization and give to families in Nepal, every penny counts. Times like these also remind us of the power of generosity. We have been astounded by the countless people who continued to donate to our mission despite the uncertainty in our world. There are so many people who believe in the power of giving, whether it be with their time, talents, and treasures.
With all this, Auburn for Water was still able to raise a total of $14,000.60 to give water filters for 70 families in Nepal. To us, we see 70 women in Nepal who no longer have to walk miles to a clean water source. We see 70 young girls who are able to focus on an education rather than household work such as gathering water. We see an entire village that is happier and healthier, since their water is purified and safe. We see an community of people in Auburn and around the Nation that are so generous with their donations.
Overall, in the midst of this COVID-19 crisis, we see hope. We know that every event, every benefit night, every post on Facebook changed the lives of 70 families forever. We see a world that is so willing to help, no matter the circumstances. For this, we will be forever grateful.
Thank you to all who have donated to our organization this past year, as well as our partner Neverthirst for making this possible.