There is an old cowboy proverb that says, “We all live downstream from someone else.” This means that the things we do to our water can affect the people, plants, and animals that live downstream. Or, looked at another way, if someone upstream from us pollutes a river, the pollution affects us. This impact grows until it reaches the ocean itself.

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“My Volunteer Water Project” is an innovative national program that allows people to undertake home-, community-, and workplace-based projects that support the Wyland Foundation’s efforts for clean water and a healthy environment. It uses good old-fashioned hands-on, easy-to-do activities that really can make a difference on the quality of life for our communities, wildlife, and neighbors downstream. All activities are designed to do the way YOU want. From the safety of your home. In virtual teams with friends. Or live shovels-in-the-ground events. Think watersmart beautification projects. Community improvements. Home repairs. Or the most basic small changes to your lifestyle. Whatever you choose. Our new digital tools will provide information, inspiration, and a unique framework to get it done.

The basics

My Volunteer Water Project is free and open to the public. Participants can join an existing team, create a new one, or join the Community Team. Team captains can set the dates and length of their team’s participation based upon their own goals, timelines, and initiatives. (We recommend participating for at least three weeks in order to turn your actions into new habits you can sustain long-term.)

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