What is Shower Strike?
Shower Strike is a week-long annual awareness campaign where advocates from around the world pledge to raise funds for Well Aware’s clean water projects. There are a few ways to participate, but many people skip showers until they have reached their fundraising goal. While it’s called Shower Strike, the thought of not showering may not appeal to everyone, which is why some participants choose to simply raise funds while continuing to shower, or alternatively, raise funds through our Water Walks (scroll down for more details on these). Participating in Shower Strike means you will raise awareness and funds to help bring clean, sustainable water to communities in east Africa.
Skipping showers isn't really my thing. How can I still be a part of this?
We have glorious alternatives!
1) Walk for Water. Put yourself in the shoes of those you are fundraising for and “Walk for Water '' daily during Shower Strike (April 20-26). Simply grab a bucket of water, a gallon, a jerrycan, or a water bottle -- and head outside each day. You can walk around the block, walk to the nearest body of water, or even go for the full 3 miles, which is the average distance many women and girls have to walk to in order to get water for the families. Whatever you choose, this fundraising option helps you catch a glimpse of what it is like to have to “Walk for Water'' daily.
2) Just Fundraise. Can’t skip showers, or walk for water, but still want to make an impact through clean water? You could shorten your showers, reduce your water usage, or whatever works for you. So long as you're helping spread the word and having fun, we are just happy you’re participating!
3) Donate or Become a Sponsor! No contribution is too small and we are always grateful for those that are willing to give back. Every $15 raised provides one person with lasting clean water.
Want to talk more about the alternatives? Email us at info@wellawareworld.org.
Why participate?
Together, we can help tens of thousands of people have access to clean drinking water for decades to come! Well Aware has a team of professionals who have a 100% success rate - meaning every sustainable water project we’ve ever installed is still working. Our clean water projects are sustainable and reliable, which is surprisingly uncommon. While we are good at what we do, we need YOUR help. The funds you raise will change the lives of thousands by helping us bring clean water to those who need it most.
Who takes part in this?
We recruit individuals and teams from all walks of life! We’ve had marketing firms, interior designers, elementary schools, nonprofit organizations, football teams, doctors, lawyers, rotary clubs, teachers... you get the idea. Anyone who wishes to participate in Shower Strike, or simply just donate to the cause is welcome!
How can I get involved as a group?
We have lots of options for group involvement! Check out our pages on how to get involved as a company and how to get involved as a class or school.
How does skipping showers raise money?
Skipping showers is simply a way to raise awareness about the need for clean water in East Africa. Every $15 you raise = clean water for 1 person. Through Shower Strike, we’ve raised more than $1.85 million over the last 13 years to provide almost 170,000 people with lasting clean water.
How do I get people to give me donations for not showering?
By telling people that you are skipping showers or walking for water (or that you're simply raising funds for a nonprofit you care about) you'll have the opportunity to explain why water is so important! All you need to do is tell people what you’re doing (via social media, email, telephone, carrier pigeon, etc.) and invite them to contribute. It’s kind of like running a marathon, only it’s much easier on your knees. More tools available on how to do this below!
Can I accept donations through Venmo?
Yes, but it will have to be through your personal account. At this time, Venmo does not have the ability for nonprofit organizations to have their own accounts. You can accept the donations through your account and make an online lump sum donation to Well Aware, or mail a check to:
Well Aware
3571 Far West Blvd PMB 229
Austin, TX 78731
Can I start a Facebook and/or Instagram fundraiser?
Yes! You can create a Facebook fundraiser right from our platform. Please follow our how-to guide on setting up both your Shower Strike fundraiser and your Facebook fundraiser. No more going back and forth between Facebook and OneCause -- every donation on Facebook will be reflected in your total on this website, and vice versa.
Can I accept international donations?
Yes! We can absolutely accept international donations, but they will be converted to USD on our platform.
Is it difficult to ask people for contributions?
Nope. Our Strikers consistently tell us that they are surprised by how easy it is. Here’s why: We make everything digital and simple. You’ll have your own Shower Strike page and everything can be done online. Many people want to help others have clean water, and you just became the way that they can. Go you!
Where can I find relevant and accurate information surrounding water scarcity issues?
Not to fear, we’ve done the work for you! Please check out our Water Facts page to find relevant information regarding global access to clean water. Pro tip: including some of these facts can be a powerful addition to your fundraising asks!
When should I start raising funds? Can I raise funds before the week of Shower Strike officially begins?
You can start raising funds as soon as you’re ready! If you want to get ahead of things, you can get started today!
What’s in it for me?
By participating in Shower Strike, you'll know that what you are doing is changing the lives of individuals in East Africa. The money that you raise will provide entire communities with access to clean water, which in turn will decrease infant mortality rates, help girls obtain an education, and overall help people thrive. You also have the chance to get your name on a water well in Kenya if you’re among the top fundraising individual or team. Other goodies during Shower Strike week include prizes for Strikers, special celebrity Shower Strikers, and more!
This is amazing, how can I go on Shower Strike with Well Aware?
Register today! Click here to get started.
What to do about checks and cash
If someone wishes to donate with cash or checks, report those donations to us and we'll add them in your donation total on your page. To report these donations, send an email to info@wellawareworld.org with the following information: Donor name (email and address if possible) and donation amount (specify cash or check).
Then, you can mail those contributions to Well Aware at the following address:
Well Aware
3571 Far West Blvd PMB 229
Austin, TX 78731
