The partnership between Wishes for Water and the Tererai Trent International Foundation began with a meaningful encounter during a study abroad trip organized by the President’s Leadership Council. This trip marked the first introduction of the members to Dr. Tererai Trent and her foundation, which focuses on empowering communities, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, by providing access to education, clean water, and economic opportunities. Through this encounter, the seeds of a partnership were planted as both organizations recognized a shared commitment to creating sustainable, positive change in the lives of underserved communities.

A key moment in solidifying this partnership came when Lily Chavez, the founder of Wishes for Water, reached out directly to Dr. Tererai Trent for guidance. Lily was seeking insight and advice on how to effectively pursue her vision for Wishes for Water, an initiative dedicated to drilling boreholes to provide clean, accessible water in communities that lack this basic necessity. Given Dr. Trent's wealth of experience in community development and her passion for improving lives, Lily valued her wisdom and saw an opportunity to align their efforts in a way that would maximize their impact.

This exchange of ideas and support led to the formation of a powerful partnership between Wishes for Water and the Tererai Trent International Foundation. The collaboration is grounded in a shared commitment to addressing the water crisis, particularly in rural and marginalized regions. One of the key outcomes of this partnership is the unique model in which both organizations work together: for every borehole that Wishes for Water drills in a community, the Tererai Trent International Foundation agrees to drill an additional borehole in the same area. This collaboration effectively doubles the number of communities benefiting from sustainable clean water sources, ensuring that more people have access to this vital resource.

The partnership not only amplifies the impact of each borehole drilled but also underscores the power of strategic collaboration in achieving long-term, sustainable change. By combining their expertise and resources, both organizations are able to reach more people, improve community health, and empower individuals through the provision of clean water, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of enhancing quality of life and supporting the development of thriving, self-sufficient communities.

This relationship exemplifies how meaningful partnerships, driven by shared values and a commitment to social change, can create a ripple effect of positive transformation. The continued efforts of Wishes for Water and the Tererai Trent International Foundation will undoubtedly result in lasting improvements in communities, with clean water serving as a foundation for broader socio-economic progress.

Wishes For Water is proud to be a part of the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, an incredible network dedicated to strengthening the nonprofit sector in Oklahoma. Through this partnership, we have gained valuable resources, connections, and support that help further our mission of providing clean, accessible water to communities in need. The Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits fosters collaboration, innovation, and professional development, and we are honored to be surrounded by like-minded organizations working toward meaningful change. Being a member of this community allows us to enhance our impact and continue making a difference in the lives of those we serve.