From Good Intentions to Lasting Impact: The Water for People Story
Have you ever wondered how an organization can transition from well-meaning actions to making a significant, lasting impact? We have an inspiring story for you! Enter Water for People– a nonprofit dedicated to providing sustainable access to drinking water, safe bathrooms, and hygiene infrastructure to populations in need. This remarkable organization's journey is a testament to the power of embracing the "Do Good Better" philosophy.
Water for People's story begins with a realization—the recognition that their well-intentioned efforts, while commendable, were falling short of achieving long-term, sustainable change. Kelly Honecker, the Director of Principal Giving at Water for People, provides valuable insights into their journey of transformation.
Kelly Honecker describes how many water projects, unfortunately, had high failure rates. Initiatives often entailed outsiders coming into communities to implement one-off projects without equipping these communities with the knowledge and resources to maintain these systems. The result was a disservice to the communities, a misallocation of donor funds, and a realization that this approach was simply not how they wanted to move forward.
So, Water for People committed to making focused changes by thoroughly understanding the root causes of WASH-related issues. They committed to a new mission statement: "Everyone, Forever." This bold statement meant that they would work in partnership with communities until everyone had access to sustainable services for water and sanitation. But it wasn't just a change in rhetoric; it was a fundamental shift in their approach. Rather than rushing to build as many water wells in as many locations as possible, Water for People resolved to focus their efforts on specific areas where they could create lasting, meaningful change. Their goal was not simply to provide a temporary solution but to empower communities to own and manage these services for the long term.
Here’s what they did:
Honest Evaluation: They were honest in evaluating their work, recognizing that their initial approach wasn't working, and resolving to change.
Focused Efforts: They focused their efforts on specific areas where they could have the most impact, even if it meant leaving some other parts of the world where they couldn't feasibly make that same difference.
Community Involvement: They emphasized the importance of involving the people affected by the problem, making them stewards and owners of the solution. By involving local governance, community members, and the affected populations, they fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility within these communities.
The story of Water for People exemplifies the "Do Good Better" philosophy. They embraced reflection, focused their efforts, and, most importantly, involved the communities they aimed to help. By adopting these practices, they transformed from well-intentioned doers to effective changemakers.
Water for People's journey is a beacon of hope for all individuals and organizations striving to make a lasting impact. Their transformation from well-intentioned actions to a commitment to "Doing Good Better" is a testament to the power of self-reflection, focus, and community involvement.
As we draw lessons from Water for People's story, we realize that understanding the problem deeply, conducting thorough research, and partnering with the communities we aim to serve are the keys to effective social impact.
Their story reminds us that "Do Good. Better." isn't just a slogan; it's a philosophy that can transform good intentions into profound and lasting change.
So, whether you're an individual looking to make a difference or part of an organization dedicated to social impact, Water for People's story serves as an inspiring guide. By embracing the principles of "Do Good. Better.” we can all become more effective changemakers and work towards creating a world where everyone can lead productive, prosperous lives. The journey begins with the understanding that our good intentions are just the starting point; it's our actions that truly make the difference.