Wells of Life Newsletter -- December 2018
Wells of Life Leadership Honored at Celebrity-studded Gala for Philanthropic Contributions on World Stage in New York City
NEW YORK, Dec. 13, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Wells of Life was recently recognized at the Better World Awards Roc 4 Humanity Gala held in New York City.
Gina DeFranco, executive producer and creator of The Better World Awards: Roc4Humanity recognized Nick Jordan and Wells of Life's President, Pete Callahan, for their efforts to save lives in Uganda. The annual fundraising event acknowledged and expressed gratitude to Wells of Life, an organization dedicated to providing fresh water to Ugandans.
Wells of Life, a Christian non-profit organization, is committed to improving the quality of lives within Ugandan communities by building wells to provide access to water. "Water is the most essential building block for life," said founder Nick Jordan in accepting the honor. "Access to clean water is critical for survival, wholesome lives, opportunities and smiles of Ugandan people. While there is still so much work to be done, the incredible support of renowned philanthropists, like Jean and Martin Shafiroff, inspires and lets us move forward to new wells."
The Gala's hosts included CBS Radio personality Ms. Rita Cosby and Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, CEO of Soho MusePresenters in addition:
- Famed Musician Jose Feliciano
- Opera Singer Jazmin Grace Grimaldi, daughter of Albert II, Prince of Monaco
- B-52's frontman Fred Schneider
- Village People member Randy Jones
- Grammy and Emmy nominee Clayton Bryant
- Designer Mrs. Claudinette Jean and her Fusha Fashion Presentation
- Vocalist James DeFrancis
Past honorees and presenters include Prince Albert II of Monaco, Julian Lennon, Bryan Ferry, Boris Becker, Flavio Briatore, Mr. Elie Saab, Mrs. Roberto Cavalli, Troy Bayliss, Ky-Mani Marley, Denise Rich, Jimmy Jean-Louis, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Pamela Anderson, Kweku Mandela, Olivia Gaynor-Long, Kweku Mandela, Kelly Wright, Eva Longoria Baston, Jenson Button, Eddie Jordan, Mark C. Thomas, Jeanine Mabunda, and Johan Christer Novsjo.
Jean Shafiroff
Jordan remarked, "The Gala in New York City was truly one of the major highlights of this year for us, as we shared our celebration with a generous group who overwhelmed us with their compassion and interest in our upcoming projects in Uganda."
"We were especially gratified by the 'Queen of Charity,' Jean Shafiroff, whose support and influence in lending endorsements is extremely valuable" he said.
At this year's Awards, Jean Shafiroff was presented with the Humanitarian Philanthropist Award in recognition of her extraordinary humanitarian achievements. This year, Shafiroff donated a well for a school in need of access to clean water.
"Philanthropy is my passion, and one of the most important lessons that we, as role models, can pass on to younger generations is the value of giving to the needy and most vulnerable. I fully support the Wells of Life's initiatives in encouraging all humanitarians to bring water, a basic human right to all people on earth," said Shafiroff.
Shafiroff's salon nominees include photographer Mr. Harry Benson, the Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Benson was presented with Humanitarian Arts Award by Kerry Kennedy, the President of Robert F. Kennedy of Human Rights Foundation, on behalf of lives that benefited from his involvement in improving basic living conditions worldwide. Other honorees for this year include Mrs. Claudinette Jean - Humanitarian Helping Hand Award and Fred Schneider - Humanitarian Musician Award.
One in nine people worldwide lack access to clean water. The mission of Wells of Life is to change that condition. Wells of Life has funded 405 wells to date in Uganda. Each well provides life-saving drinking water access to over 400,000 people.
Pope Francis I
Before the Gala, Wells of Life Executive Board member, Rand Sperry, met with Pope Francis I. The Pope's powerful voice supported a critical water well in Uganda. Wells of Life is concerned with the lack of immediate attention from influential voices to support provision of consumable water. "Powerful voices could help alleviate the domino effects caused by lack of water, and yet only a few speak out and bring awareness to suffering regions. One such person is Pope Francis I. The Pope has graciously supported our mission of relieving the most devastating problem of all, access to the basic need of satisfying thirst," said Jordan.
The Pope's advocacy has called the world to action. The Vatican's statement, "Pope Francis advocates for global access to clean drinking water" demonstrates his commitment to Wells of Life's life-saving mission.
A Final Note:
The Wells of Life Board remembers and honors the leadership and service of the 41st U.S. President, George H. W. Bush, whose life encourages us to contribute our minds, hearts and bodies selflessly to the maintenance of lives and peace around the world.
In this season of giving, we would like to thank all of our national and international supporters, as well as our role models, past and present, who enlighten our spirits to continue our journey.
Please donate to our life-saving cause by year end and have your dollars matched up to $50,000 by the board of Wells of Life. Give today at wellsoflife.org/donate.
SOURCE Wells of Life
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