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World Water Day is an annual United Nations observance day (always on March 22nd) that highlights the importance of freshwater. The day is used to advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. In commemoration of that event, we’re focusing on access to potable water.

Today, 785 million people lack access to safe water at home, and two billion don’t have access to a toilet. The water crisis negatively impacts the health and livelihood of more than a third of our global population. A global nonprofit organization working to bring water and sanitation to the world—water.org—exists to change this. Their mission is to make it safe, accessible and cost-effective.

They help people get access to safe water and sanitation through affordable financing, such as small loans. They work every day to empower people in need with these life-changing resources—giving women hope, children health and families a bright future.

Founded by Gary White and Academy Award-winner Matt Damon, water.org has pioneered market-driven financial solutions to the global water crisis for more than 25 years.

Rich Thorsten is water.org’s Chief Impact Officer. Rich leads the team responsible for working with financial institutions, water and sanitation enterprises, and other sector leaders to empower millions of people in need with access to safe water and sanitation. He works to find effective ways to empower people and catalyze finance to improve the security, health and welfare of those living in poverty worldwide.

Rich’s 25-plus year career has included programmatic and leadership roles at water.org and U.S. conservation organizations. He holds a master’s and doctorate degree in planning, with a focus on water and sanitation in developing countries.

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Tune in to the interview with Rich and click through the corresponding slideshow to the left… (Photos courtesy of water.org.)