Local partner organizations

Water 1st does not implement projects. Instead we support the work of local partner organizations, often non-governmental organizations (NGOs), that have proven their ability to undertake sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene education projects. These local partner organizations undertake the day-to-day management and implementation of projects funded by Water 1st. They train and support local communities to plan, construct, manage and maintain their own projects.

Selecting and monitoring the ongoing work of local partner organizations is an important part of what we do. We requirethem to have significant experience and success in consistently implementing high-quality, comprehensive water projects. We have a proven track record in the field. Our staff, board, and volunteers have nearly two decades of experience in evaluating and monitoring the work of local partner organizations.

Our local partner organizations are recognized and respected in the regions where they work. They will have a unique knowledge of the communities in which they work to implement projects, an understanding of the local and national government, relationships with local leaders, and the ability to speak in local dialects. Often the staff of local partner organizations who are successful at implementing high-quality, sustainable water projects are from communities similar to the ones where they work, allowing them to gain people’s trust and confidence quickly. Our local partner organizations understand the reasons why people lack access to clean water and the local traditions or customs that might prevent individuals and communities from making behavior changes that will allow them to live healthier lives. By working through local partner organizations, Water 1st is able to operate more sustainably and more cost-effectively than if we tried to implement projects ourselves.

Through the financial support of Water 1st, our goal is to encourage our local partner organizations to grow. This will allow the benefits of our support to become even more widespread as projects are replicated in one community and the next and the next.