According to the World Health Organization, “No other humanitarian intervention produces a more dramatic effect on life than access to safe water and sanitation.” In support of that effort, Wells Bring Hope is a Los Angeles based nonprofit dedicated to saving lives with safe water in West Africa. Two of its supporters, Firouzeh Banki and financial advisor and Los Angeles Suitcase Party founder Curtis Estes, both residents of Bel Air Crest, are hosting a by invitation only fundraiser for their neighbors and friends of Wells Bring Hope at the Bel Air Crest Clubhouse, on Thursday May 17.
Former Los Angeles County District Attorney and noted photographer Gil Garcetti will share his photographs and stories from his trips to West Africa, both before and after wells were drilled. Wells Bring Hope’s Founder and President Barbara Goldberg will update guests on a recent trip to Niger and debut a video about the impact of the micro-finance loans they give to women in the villages where wells are drilled. Wells Bring Hope is the only international safe water cause to include micro-finance loans to women as part of their program. The event will feature dinner, wine and complimentary valet parking.
Wells Bring Hope has already had a banner year including bringing in donations for 145 wells and visiting Niger and Mali, and interviewing close to 100 women about their experience of having clear water available. Additionally, students at many local schools have been inspired to raise funds for Wells Bring Hope. The Chadwick School in Palos Verdes has recently completed their two year fundraising effort for one well. The Marlborough School is very close to donating a well and Los Angeles High, with its matching donor, Jeanne Kuntz, is also working towards donating one well.
To make a tax deductible contribution to Wells Bring Hope, donors should go to www.wellsbringhope.org or mail a check payable to: Wells Bring Hope, 16563 Park Lane Circle, Los Angeles, CA 90049.