Well in Africa Changes the Lives of Two Boys from Different Cultures
A new children's book helps promote awareness of global water issues. Revealing the power one child has to make a difference, Ryan and Jimmy explores the bond between a Canadian boy with a fierce determination to help and a Ugandan boy who faced grave danger in a country at war.
One in six people on the planet doesn't have access to clean water. Most children in developed countries don't know this -- and certainly don't realize they can help. The new children's book Ryan and Jimmy reveals the power one child has to make a difference. A true story, the book explores the bond between a Canadian boy with a fierce determination to help and a Ugandan boy who faced grave danger in a country at war.
In 1998, when six-year-old Ryan Hreljac learned about the lack of safe drinking water in many parts of the world, he set out to earn money to build a well in Africa. His efforts had a ripple effect. An article appeared in the local newspaper and donations began to pour in. Hreljac, who initially was shy, spoke about his cause at schools, churches and clubs. He started a foundation that has built more than 200 wells in 11 countries. He has appeared twice on "The Oprah Winfrey Show," and his work has been recognized by the Pope, Prince Charles, Jean-Michel Cousteau and Jane Goodall.