“The United States has been a global leader in promoting international development, particularly clean water, and I am proud to play a small role in this enormous undertaking,”  said Congressman Rogers. “Together, WASH advocates have fostered incredible partnerships in the field and on the ground in developing counties, making life better for others and building good will for our nation around the globe. I will continue to work with you on our shared goal of promoting access to clean water for every one of our citizens as well.”

"U.S. government leadership supports the hard work in the field and helps leverage the successful collaboration between Rotary and USAID and other public-private partnerships,” stated Boyd. “These partnerships help ensure sustainable, lasting progress in providing water, sanitation, and hygiene to those who need it the most.” 

John Oldfield, CEO of WASH Advocates, noted, “We are honored to present these well-deserved awards. Each of our Republican and Democratic awardees worked hard to save and improve the lives of millions of people through the provision of safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The 2014 WASH Advocate Awards honor their current leadership, and the WASH community looks forward to continuing to work together to save and improve millions more lives over the coming years.”

Every year, the Water for the Poor Act brings better WASH access to millions of people across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It is estimated that every dollar invested in WASH returns $4 in reduced healthcare costs and increased economic productivity. The Water for the Poor Act has made a tangible difference in the world since it was passed in 2005. As a result of USAID investments, 3.8 million people gained improved access to drinking water and 1.9 million improved access to sanitation in FY 2011 alone.