Walking For Water by Lauren

Walking For Water by Lauren - April 2022 Scholarship Essay

In March of 2017, my seventh-grade class and I participated in a service-learning project with Water Mission, an organization that provides clean drinking water to third-world countries. Two years later, I decided to volunteer at their annual Walk for Water event. During this event, participants filled a bucket with water and walked for 2 miles. By doing this, the participants experienced what many residents of third-world countries must do every day.

When I volunteered, I helped with holding up signs to help spread more awareness. Some signs would contained facts about hardships people faced in less fortunate countries, and other signs contained information about how we can help. Hundreds of people walked that day, and although I did not walk that year, I was more than happy to volunteer for a good cause.

Water Mission has taught me to not take my lifestyle or belongings for granted. While I have access to clean drinking water, a stable shelter, and nice clothing, many people in this world are not as fortunate. Since my volunteer work with Water Mission, I have felt so much more gratitude for my status in life. I am able to acknowledge that I have a large amount of privilege because I have easier access to items that are needed for one’s survival. I also understand that I have the chance to use my privileges to help others who have it worse than I do. I intend to volunteer and help communities in the future; not only is it fun to meet new people and share experiences, but it is gratifying to know that you are able to better the lives of others.