Once again, we’ve been inspired by the selfless and ambitious efforts of Delaney Hill. For the second time in three years, the Lighthouse Point, FL, teenager asked friends and family to contribute to the cause of clean water instead of giving her birthday presents, resulting in a big splash of support and donations.

Inspired by the touching story of Rachel Beckwith, Delaney initiated a similar campaign in 2011 which was also a success. In conjunction with Wishing Well International Foundation (WWIF), she used her 11th birthday to raise $2,500 that positively impacted the lives of nearly 1,000 people in Bagliga, Ghana. And now in 2014, she’s done it again.

Delaney spread the word of her water campaign and initiated a dress-down day at her school, St. Paul Lutheran School in Boca Raton. Efforts by Delaney and WWIF raised $9,000 and those funds were matched by the Clean Water Team, bringing the total to $18,000, which will provide clean, safe drinking water for 1,500 people for 10 years It’s refreshing to see a teenager receive attention for a good reason. Adolescence is a time in life when many are getting into trouble, indulging in new freedoms and focusing on themselves, which makes Delaney’s campaign all the more remarkable. “It’s no small thing for a young person to deflect their birthday attention to others, but that’s exactly what Delaney has done,” said Guillermo Guzman, President and Founder of WWIF. “It was truly a sacrifice for her. Not only is this the second time Delaney has given up her birthday gifts, but she worked hard on both occasions to make sure everyone understood the significance of her campaign.”

While there are many desperate needs around the world with complex solutions, meeting the need for clean, safe drinking water has proven to be very simple. The people are in place, the technology is simple and a small amount of funding goes a long way. For every $120 donated, 10 people are provided with clean water for 10 years. This clear message is triggering a variety of campaigns across the world that are as unique and creative as the people who start them.

Here at WWIF, we’re excited about our upcoming partnerships and campaigns in 2015. Not only is there an increased awareness of the global need for clean water, but there are also more people who are willing to do something about it. Delaney’s campaigns have had a big impact, but they also prove the point that anyone can make a real difference in this world.

If you wish to join Delaney in her efforts to provide clean, safe drinking water to those most in need, please go to her fund-raising page at http://www.active.com/donate/HydraidFilter/DHill