Water 1st – Beer 2nd Fun(d)raiser a huge success

More than 200 people attend event at Hale's Palladium

More than 200 guests gathered for the 2nd annual Water 1st – Beer 2nd fun(d)raiser at Hale's Palladium on Saturday, April 7th, where they enjoyed live music, food, and dancing in support of the the work of Water 1st International.

Folk Voice and Friends provided live polka music and guests danced while enjoying Hale’s beer and root beer. In keeping with the theme of the event, guests were given a list of beer and water facts (such as "$125, the equivalent of a keg of good beer helps bring safe water to a family of five for life in Bangladesh") to demonstrate how their funds are being put to work in Water 1st projects.

Board member Christine Stickler welcomed guests and talked about why she is involved with Water 1st. Christine is the Director of the Pipeline Project at the University of Washington, where she is currently leading a group of undergraduate students who have decided to form the first Water 1st university club. Christine talked about her involved as a board member for Water 1st, saying that she had served on many boards and was ready to take a break from board service when she learned about Water 1st. "Water 1st's cause and approach was so compelling, that I just had to be part of it."

Guests enjoyed a film featuring recent updates from Water 1st projects in India, Bangladesh and Ethiopia. (Watch Film Here) Marla Smith-Nilson, Executive Director of Water 1st, also spoke of her recent travels to Water 1st projects in Asia and Africa with Water 1st supporters and thanked Water 1st donors for their continued support of projects that are making a difference in the lives of thousands of people.

"When I visit our beneficiaries and tell them that I am one person speaking for thousands of people who care about their lives, I couldn't be more proud of where I come from and the kind of people that I represent. In just two years, together we have raised over $1 million dollars from 800 people and organizations to support our water and sanitation projects. All your gifts are valued and add up to support entire village projects. St. Joe’s 5th grade class sold Otter Pops and raised $600, Brenneke School of Massage had a massage booth at the NW Women's’ Show and raised over $3000, Harambee church in Renton took up a special collection and raised $900, UW students have formed a Water 1st club to outreach to Seattle area schools. I know there are many of you here tonight for the first time because someone invited you to learn more about us. Thank you. The contributions you are all making inspire our staff and our partner organizations on a daily basis."

Special thanks to Hale's Brewery

Water 1st gratefully recognizes Hale’s Brewery for their support of Water 1st. We would also like to bring special attention to our event volunteers and guests for their commitment to the work of Water 1st and helping the world’s poor meet their most basic need for safe water.

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