The mission of charity: water is simple, yet profound—to bring clean, safe drinking water to people in rural communities around the world. Since its inception, the organization has funded over 171,000 water projects, providing access to clean water for more than 19 million people across 29 countries. The influence of these efforts cannot be overstated. Clean water improves health, enhances education, boosts local economies, and empowers women and girls who are often tasked with collecting water. Harrison’s emphasis on local leadership is central to charity: water’s approach. “For our work to be culturally appropriate and sustainable, it must be led by locals in each and every country,” he explains. By partnering with experienced local organizations, charity: water ensures that projects are community- owned and maintained. This strategy respects local customs and creates job opportunities within those communities. In countries such as Malawi, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Nepal, and Pakistan, these partnerships have proven to be highly effective. One particularly poignant story Harrison shared involved Aissa, a woman from Niger. “Aissa had lost eight out of ten children due to contaminated water,” he recounts. “Meeting her and hearing her story was heartbreaking, but seeing the transformation after we drilled a well in her village was incredibly powerful.” The new well drastically improved living conditions, underscoring the life-changing impact of clean water. Despite its successes, the journey has not been without challenges. charity: water has faced corruption issues in many countries—namely my native Haiti, forcing Harrison’s team to pull efforts geared toward the country. Harrison’s transparency about these issues highlights the organization’s commitment to integrity and effective operation. “We are always learning and improving,” he says. “Our goal is to provide the best possible solutions to those in need.”
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Scott Harrison’s transformation from a successful New York nightclub promoter to the founder of charity: water is a testament to the transformative power of purpose and dedication. The interview path he walks today. “I was the most selfish, sycophantic, miserable human being I knew,” he confesses. Harrison spent a decade in New York’s nightlife, surrounded by excess and indulgence. It was a stark contrast to the life-changing mission he would later embrace. In 2006, seeking a profound change, Harrison volunteered with Mercy Ships, a humanitarian organization providing free medical care in West Africa. This experience was transformative. “I saw the devastating effects of dirty water,” he recalls. The trip ignited a spark that led to the founding of charity: water later that year. S I conducted for the Summer edition of TrooRa magazine (The Global African Influence Issue) offered a rare glimpse into the life and motivations of a man who has significantly impacted millions by providing access to clean water to those in need. Harrison’s early life was far from the philanthropic
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