January 21, 2024

Hi and welcome to the OneBeautifulPlanet.org newsletter #31! This message goes to my 152 subscribers, with a big Thank you for signing up. If you have not yet explored the weekly Newsletter archive, check it out. I wrote the first issue in June 2023, and an overview of this weekly effort at the 100 subscriber milestone.

Scott Harrison

I first earned of Scott almost ten years ago, and have been fascinated by his life story and accomplishments. A former New York City nightclub promoter, he is now known for dedicating his life to addressing the global water crisis and being the founder of charity: water (yes, it is spelled without capital “C”), one of the fastest growing nonprofit organizations worldwide. Born in Philadelphia in 1975, Scott’s journey to becoming a prominent figure in the nonprofit space is marked by personal transformation, compassion, and a deep commitment to changing the world for the better.

After years of partying and carefree living, he reached a turning point in his life where the emptiness of his existence and the negative impact of his lifestyle on others became unbearable. This realization prompted Scott to make a radical change and embark on a journey of service. It started with a role as a photographer for Mercy Ships, an international charity that operates the largest non-governmental hospital ships in the world, providing medical care in Africa, surgical and health education, community development projects, and mental health programs.

Having witnessed a dire need for clean drinking water during his travels, Scott founded charity: water in 2006 with a mission to bring clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations. From the start, the organization operated on a powerful model, with 100% of public donations going directly to funding water projects. Self-funding administrative expenses and a commitment to transparency and accountability have set charity: water apart from other nonprofits. Indeed, it earned the trust of donors worldwide and registered staggering growth since: 15 years since its founding, it reached $100 million in revenues, and assets of $176 million:

One of the strategies employed by charity: water is its emphasis on technology and storytelling to raise awareness and funding. In his role, Scott recognized the power of storytelling in connecting people emotionally to the cause, and he has effectively used various platforms to share the stories of those impacted by the lack of clean water. Through compelling narratives and powerful visuals, charity: water has been able to inspire others to contribute to the cause.

Under Scott’s leadership, charity: water has funded thousands of water projects in over 29 countries, providing access to clean water for millions of people. The organization focuses on drilling wells, installing water filtration systems, and implementing hygiene education programs. Each completed project is a step toward eliminating waterborne diseases, improving overall health, and empowering communities.

Scott’s impact extends beyond the provision of clean water. His approach to philanthropy has inspired a new generation of social entrepreneurs and activists. The success of charity: water has demonstrated that a well-managed nonprofit can thrive while maintaining the highest ethical standards.

In addition to his nonprofit work, Scott authored the book "Thirst: A Story of Redemption, Compassion, and a Mission to Bring Clean Water to the World." The book is funny, inspiring, and provides a firsthand account of his personal journey and the founding of charity: water, with insights into the challenges and successes of the organization.

Through his vision, passion, story of personal redemption, relentless execution, and commitment to making a difference, Scott Harrison is a symbol of hope for those affected by the water crisis and a powerful example of social entrepreneurship. He is a reminder that positive change is possible when driven by compassion, care, and a genuine sense of responsibility to the well-being of others.

Sources:

• https://www.charitywater.org/about/scott-harrison-story

Mindset

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

— Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the Works

On the action front, I completed my third cleanup of the year, on MLK Day at Core Creek Park, in Bucks County PA. I was joined by another volunteer, Jairus James, and in two hours our team of two filled 4 large trash bags, gathering 70+ lbs. of mostly abandoned glass, plastic and random litter. This was a fun, rewarding experience, and I am thankful that Jairus responded to my Call to Action, and recent Nextdoor.com posts. Thank you Jairus!

On the gaining knowledge front, I completed my research into the connection between climate change and ocean plastic. Plastic debris, identified as an emerging environmental issue by the United Nations, accounts for 85% of marine waste. Scientific exploration since 2005 reveals a connection between climate change and marine litter, both posing significant threats to biodiversity and ecosystems.

My brief article summarizes five ways in which rising temperatures contribute to an increase in marine litter: heavy rainstorm run-off, sewage systems overflow, sea level rise, extreme weather events, and ocean circulation changes - all lead to more debris in waterways and ultimately the ocean, with massive adverse effects, and not just on how pretty beaches look. Urgent action and awareness are a must, pretty much now, if not yesterday. Initiatives like Deap Qatar and The Ocean Cleanup, are just two among the many examples of positive, much-needed recent action on this front.

If you found this newsletter helpful or interesting, please share with your friends, contacts, and anyone you know who may benefit from following my journey. Let’s gain some knowledge, and take action toward a cleaner, healthier world!

Thank you.

Razvan