Joshua Guthrie: Dollar for a Drink
For as long as he can remember, Joshua Guthrie, 16, and his family have sponsored children through World Vision. For almost as long, Josh has wanted to purchase one of the “big items” in the World Vision annual catalog — like the $8,000 well.
Last spring, his family had dinner with Jeff Palmer, the executive director of Baptist Global Response, another Christian humanitarian organization. He encouraged Josh to hold a fundraiser, sending him a list of five potential projects. One was to build a well in Sudan, where over 12 million people lack access to clean drinking water.
Joining the Movement
In July, Josh read Do Hard Things. “[It] really got me moving,” he says. In August, Josh teamed with his dad to brainstorm and set up a basic website. In September, he began contacting schools and organizations and registered as a 501(c)3 with the IRS. That same month, Josh also got plugged in to the Rebelution Forum — where fellow rebelutionaries jumped on board with ideas and support.
“I presented the project to this great community of Christian teens, and I received a very positive response,” Josh says. “I got many suggestions and encouragement; it was great. So many people wanted to help, and many of them are still helping.”
Launching the Project
On October 1st, Josh officially launched Dollar for a Drink. The goal? To raise $8,000 before Christmas. The plan? A simple concept: Give up one drink. Give one dollar. Build one well in Sudan. So far, he has raised almost $3,000 towards his goal.
“We want to get as many teenagers involved in this project as possible,” Josh says of the student-led, student-driven initiative. “We want to show that it doesn’t matter your age, you can make a difference in the world. Anyone can give a dollar.”
In late October, the Jackson Sun featured their hometown rebelutionary:
Josh Guthrie is hoping to prove that any person, regardless of age, can make a difference.
Guthrie, 16, a sophomore home schooler, started a nonprofit organization to help build fresh water wells in Sudan.
The charity is called “Dollar for a Drink.” The idea is that instead of buying a soda, students can donate the dollar to help build a well, Guthrie said.
“This is not all me,” he said. “The Lord can do more than we can imagine. This wouldn’t have been possible without the help of God. I call him the executive director.”
We are so proud of Josh, not just for making a difference, but for encouraging fellow teens to join him and doing it all for the glory of God. If there is anything we all can and should get behind as rebelutionaries, it’s projects like this.
A Holiday Challenge
With just over a month before Christmas, Josh has $5,000 to raise. And as we enter the holiday season, most people expect us to only care about stuffing our faces and getting the latest games and gadgets. They don’t expect us to care about the poor, the hungry, the thirsty, or the oppressed. Let’s join Josh and prove them wrong.
Anyone can give a dollar. Most of us can give more. To get us started, the Rebelution has decided to match your donations, up to a total of $1,000. Whatever you give, we’ll match it — doubling your contribution! $5 becomes $10. $25 becomes $50.
As you give or raise funds for Dollar for a Drink, leave a comment to encourage your fellow teens and let us know so we can match your donation. If you’d rather not comment, you can just shoot an email to alex [at] therebelution [dot] com.
Let’s see how fast we can raise $2,000 for the people of Sudan, not just to provide clean water, but also to share the gospel — the mission of Baptist Global Response. This holiday season (and beyond), we’ll show the world what really matters to teens.
+ DONATE / FACEBOOK / PROMOTE + Send Checks To: Dollar for a Drink, P.O. Box 265, Medina, TN 38355
November 20th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
Wow… Guys, I really don’t know what to say! This blog post is SUCH and encouragement to me! The word is finally starting to get out! I can’t thank you enough. Not to mention the matching gift you are offering. As you guys have said in your book, we need collaboration, and you are really making that happen here! May the Lord bless the both of you and your ministry, and I pray that the Lord will work powerfully through this blog post.
As a message to all of you other rebelutionaries out there, I would like to emphasize what Alex (or was it Brett?…) said earlier: “Anyone can give a dollar”. That is so totally true. I want to encourage you all (as the director of the DfaD project) to take this small step in helping the poor, dying and helpless in another country. It really is hard to think about the fact that we will be eating delicious, hot meals this holiday season when the people of Sudan will be struggling for survival. Let us all remember the purpose of the Thanksgiving/Christmas season: that Jesus Christ came down to save the world. With that in mind, let us take the words of Christ seriously:
“And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.” - Matt. 10:42
If we are truly disciples of Christ, we must help the poor and dying in this world, all in his name. I thank you all so very, very much for your interest in helping the DfaD project!
Soli Deo Gloria!!!
November 20th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
Thanks for saying “yes” and letting the Lord use you in such a powerful way, Josh! Way to go! My dollar will be on its way shortly!
November 20th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
This is wonderful - and very inspiring. Thank you for letting us know about this opportunity and vision!
November 20th, 2008 at 8:03 pm
Wow! Way to go guys! What an incredible influence! I hope you guys make a really big impact in your ministry! This story really spoke to my heart. Thank you for giving me such great encouragement! I hope I can help you guys out.
May God get the glory.
Kayla DeFrance
November 20th, 2008 at 8:28 pm
WOW! I’m definitely going to try to get this out in our church. I told you, Josh that I would help. I’ve been kinda busy lately, but starting now, I’m helping out!
November 20th, 2008 at 8:59 pm
Great idea!!!
:D 
November 20th, 2008 at 9:20 pm
Great! In the midst of all our shopping I think we could all spare a dollar t give the people in Sudan a little Christmas gift as well. Thanks for letting us know guys! =)
November 20th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
I am so glad that you are doing this! The Sunday when Abraham Nhial came to my church to speak about the needs of Sudan is still fresh in my mind, and that was two years ago. I recommend reading “Lost Boy No More” to get an idea of what the people of Sudan went through (young readers be careful, it gets a little graphic if I remember correctly) and how much they need our help.
http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Boy-No-More-Salvation/dp/0805431861
November 20th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
Oh how caught up we get about possessions this time of the year. I can’t believe how much time I spend just thinking about what I want for Christmas. The truth is I have everything I need covered everyday, Christmas is just a traditional indulgence for me. Then I think of what people in Sudan would want for Christmas…. some drinking water that won’t kill them.
YIKES. I think I can spare at least one dollar for this cause.
November 20th, 2008 at 11:49 pm
It’s just one droplet, with another droplet, with another and another and another that together make the ocean. Here’s $5. Let’s each give a trickle and make, if not another ocean, a least one brimming well!
November 21st, 2008 at 8:33 am
Congratulations, Josh! I\’m going to see about getting this started at my church. Also, I will be sending $ of my own soon (I\’d rather email the amount).
I pray God will use this in a mighty way.
November 21st, 2008 at 8:40 am
Also, I started a Xanga Blogring for it, if any of you Rebelutionaries are members over there.
November 21st, 2008 at 8:43 am
Just think…I can spend $1.25 on a bottle of pop any time that I want to, but people in Sudan don’t have clean drinking water. What a sobering thought!!! I’ll be giving more than just a dollar.
Thanks for taking some initiative Josh!!!
~ Moriah Harris
November 21st, 2008 at 10:02 am
WOW!! This has really inspired me! Let’s all give!
November 21st, 2008 at 10:13 am
As a 55-yr young grandmother of 5 (19, 9, 3, 1&1)… and having read Do Hard Things this past summer and having handed out personally more than 30 copies to not just teens but folks of all ages… I applaud you Josh for reading it and getting busy doing something! I believe Alex & Brett’s book is for everyone… not just teenagers… As Big Daddy Weave’s song says… “I wonder what the world be like if we let Jesus live through you and me.”…
If we help meet the needs of those who are suffering… whether it be through food, clothing, shelter, or something as simple but life-sustaining as water… we are being his hands and feet… are we not?
I encourage all of you young people to get the adults in your life involved in your dreams, passions, service, etc. … we [Babyboomers] need to be involved in helping to make this world a better place… we have all done too little for too long… I wish Do Hard Things had been written when I was a teen… feel like I’ve wasted a lot of years but I’m ready to start making up for it!
I’ll be praying for your ministry Josh and all of you other young people that God will give you a huge, nearly impossible vision that will impact our world for His glory!
REBEL ON!!!
Kathy McDaniels
Orlando
November 21st, 2008 at 10:59 am
Way to go to everyone who is stepping up. I got five on it!
November 21st, 2008 at 11:07 am
That’s an awesome idea!
I’ll get a local Bible study that I attend to do some fund-raisers. I’ll let you know what we come up with!
November 21st, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Thanks for the encouraging and reminding post Alex & Brett! I heard about Josh’s idea for dollar for a drink when he first posted about it on the forums, and recently remembered about it the other day. When I saw he still had $5,000 to raise before Christmas it made me want to help all the more, so i’m going to try and get my youth group involved.
Thanks guys!
-Jasmine
November 21st, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Wow, this is such a great idea. And proof that we can make a difference.
I gave five dollars, and sent all of my facebook contacts a message about DfaD.
May God continue to bless this work, and may we see the goal surpassed!
November 21st, 2008 at 1:22 pm
Hey,
Josh, way to step up to the plate. I am going to see if I can get my church involved, if not I will definitely try to help personally. Even if I don’t managed to give monetarily (I’m brook at the moment) know that my prays will be with you.
Love in Our Savior,
Tiffany
November 21st, 2008 at 1:26 pm
That is such a neat testimony!! I’ll be praying that he can get the support he needs. With God I know that it is possible even if it might seem unlikely!!
Thank you for sharing!!
Blessings!
~
November 21st, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Hey, Josh,
$10 dollars is on it’s way!
God Bless your efforts!
In Christ,
Kyrstin
November 21st, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Josh, you are working for a great cause that I know God will bless. This is a very inspiring post. I want to promote dollar for a drink at my church, and will be donating$, as well.
November 21st, 2008 at 4:04 pm
I was hoping to get this tarted around my school but I couldnt figure out how to get the info to do it and get the info back, so Instead of trying for it I wussed out. I wish I hadent but I just gave 20.00
November 21st, 2008 at 4:20 pm
For those of us who don’t own credit cards. How can we donate? Anyways to bill us and we send a check of something?
November 21st, 2008 at 4:34 pm
Wow Dude great thinking Keep it up!!
November 21st, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Rachel: Great question! You can send a check to the following address:
Dollar for a Drink
P.O. Box 265
Medina, TN 38355
November 21st, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Thanks Alex,
$20.00 on the way!
November 21st, 2008 at 5:18 pm
Way to go Josh! It is so wonderful to see more and more teens rising up who want to use their lifes to help others and follow Christ.
Alex,
I really wish I could give more to this cause, but unfortunatly I don’t have much money. I suppose every bit helps though. Anyway, I am sending $5. Make sure you match it!
God bless!
Sarah.
November 21st, 2008 at 6:43 pm
Why does it say “We’ve Raised:$410″ at the top of the picture? I though they raised $3,000. Just thought I’d ask.
God bless!
Sarah.
November 21st, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Sarah: $410 is the amount “we” on this blog have raised towards the $8,000 goal.
November 21st, 2008 at 6:50 pm
Wow!
November 21st, 2008 at 7:05 pm
[b] Well Sara [/b], the reason that it says “$410″ and not “$3,000″ is because the Rebelution has raised $410, but the DfaD project over all (that is separate from the rebelution) has raised $3,000 TOTAL.
But seriously, I really don’t know what to say! $410 in the first day?!?!?! The LORD is good!
You guys are great. Thanks so much! Let’s see if we really can bring it up to $2,000! 
I will certainly be sure to check the P.O. Box when I get home! (I am on a trip with my family at the moment)
November 21st, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Aw… you can’t do code boxes here. ([b] [/b]) How did you do it Alex?
November 21st, 2008 at 8:15 pm
$410 Praise the Lord!!
November 21st, 2008 at 10:55 pm
This is such a great idea! I want to get the Christian club at my school involved. How long to we have to send money?
November 21st, 2008 at 11:01 pm
Getting a well is a great idea! Can I get the christian club at my school involved?
November 22nd, 2008 at 8:39 am
Rachel: Yes, you can get your club at school involved. The target deadline is Christmas.
November 22nd, 2008 at 12:33 pm
Praise the Lord! I am glad to contribute to this God-glorifying effort! I contributed $20.
November 22nd, 2008 at 2:51 pm
$630 in 2 days! Awesome! Great effort, Joshua. I have an online shop, so from now until Christmas I will donate 10% of my proceeds to DfaD. I don’t know how much that’ll end up being, since I don’t sell much, but it’s something! For now, I’m sending a check for $10.
November 22nd, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Rachel: The goal is to have the money by Christmas. It’s not really a deadline, but we would like to have everything by then if at all possible.
Hannah: Thanks so much for the encouragement, as well as your 10% gift! (in advance!) May the Lord bless your sales!
And to the rest of you: $630 in the first TWO DAYS?!?! Just four hundred more and we will have reached the $2,000! I wonder how long that will take…
The LORD is sovereign!
November 23rd, 2008 at 9:57 am
Wow, $630! Praise the Lord!!!
November 23rd, 2008 at 11:18 am
That’s awesome!!!
I will see what I can do…….But you know it’s hard to do that when I don’t live in Georgia( I think that’s where you guys live)……
just hearing about that makes me want to do something that is sooooo life-changeing!!!
Keep it up,I know when you stand before GOd he will be pleased w’ you!!!
Keep up the good work!!!
November 23rd, 2008 at 2:12 pm
This is a great idea! I’ll be sending a check soon!! God bless your efforts!
November 23rd, 2008 at 5:43 pm
I’m not a teen but came across your site and am so grateful to God for the teens who are “doing hard things” for the glory of Christ. I wasted away my teen and early twenty years “doing horrible things” and now by God’s grace and Spirit I am striving to not waste the life I have left. I am more than happy to give money for a well in Sudan…may God use it.
Press on,
sam
November 23rd, 2008 at 5:54 pm
Btw, I’m not sure how you all match the contributions but I gave $144 via the network for good donation website.
November 23rd, 2008 at 5:59 pm
This is simply amazing, I love teenagers that spend their lives for Christ with no limits.
God bless you Josh
Gian
November 23rd, 2008 at 7:06 pm
Holy Moly $830!!! Good Job Gang
November 23rd, 2008 at 7:45 pm
Yessssss!!!!!! That’s day three complete (at least for me) and we are ALREADY AT $830!!!!!! God is so TOTALLY AWESOME!!!
You guys are super!
November 23rd, 2008 at 10:18 pm
This is so great! For the past month or so, feeding the hungry has been a big thing for me, but I’m still working out the details on how to do it. I’ll do what I can to help and tell all my friends about this!
November 24th, 2008 at 5:21 am
Thanks to Mr. Guthrie for giving us this opportunity to work together towards a clear, God-glorifying goal.
November 24th, 2008 at 6:40 am
Thanks! 20$ will be snail mailing its way to you Joshua by Tuesday night.
November 24th, 2008 at 6:51 am
So if we send a check by snail mail to the address, does the Rebelution still match it? Do we email Alex and notify him of our donation and then it gets matched? Sorry, I know ya’ll are getting quite a few questions, but I’m a bit confused.
November 24th, 2008 at 6:54 am
Wh… WHAT?!?!?! $1,218?!?!?! And it’s only the morning of the first day! God is so good!!!
November 24th, 2008 at 8:17 am
Hey, that total is it the total with or without the Rebolution matching the donations??
November 24th, 2008 at 10:20 am
Alex and Brett:
I am so, so excited that y’all are raising money for World Vision to dig a well!! Praise the Lord!
November 24th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
Catherine: Yes, if you leave a comment (or email us) with the amount, snail mail donations will also be matched.
November 24th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
hey, this is so awesome! i’m leading a dht teen guys study at my church, and all the guys in it agreed to give! you will be getting quite a few donations soon, joshua!
-:-hayden-:-
p.s. i’m a little confused…do i mail my donation to theRebelution or to joshua?
November 24th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
WOW!! This is amazing!
I can’t think of anything else to say . . . but, hey, Brett, Alex and Josh, you (and a ton of other teens!) have proved to all the adults that say that teenagers can’t make a difference in this world that they’re WRONG!
I’ve always wanted to get out and do something to make a difference myself . . . so it’s always great to see others’ work!
Great work, Josh, and God bless!!
November 24th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
If we are too young to have checks (or just have a savings account), can we mail you cash instead?
November 24th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
I donated $33 to this Dollar a Drink. I really feel good about using my money for the benefit of others! Thanks Alex and Brett for alerting me!
November 24th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
Sarah: Yes, you can. Just make sure you fold it up in paper so that it isn’t obvious that it has cash in it. Otherwise people might open it up and steal it. Good question!
November 24th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
I just thought that I would clarify something here: DfaD is not building wells through World Vision, but rather through Baptist Global Response. Some one had thought that we were doing it through WV earlier, so I thought I would correct them.
November 24th, 2008 at 5:02 pm
Sarah, great question! :]
I was going to ask the same thing . . . but you beat me to it.
The high schoolers at my church are doing a whole study thing on the Do Hard Things book and we are all challenging ourselves to “do hard things” as the book suggests . . . I think letting them know about the Dollar for a Drink organization would be greatly beneficial.
It’s so Amazing how many people are being motivated to help for God’s glory!
Oh, and Josh, you used the phrase “Soli Deo Gloria” in one of your earlier posts . . . I was wondering, what does it mean? :]
November 24th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
WOW!! Josh that is amazing!! I will definatly send in my donation to help get this well up and running in Sudan!!
By the way Alex and Brett, I have read your book and it has really encouraged me to go against the low expectations that the world slams on our teen generation. God’s been calling me to be a speaker to teens….soon. I dont know how He is going to work that all out….but I am just relying on Him!
God Bless!!!
Lexi
November 24th, 2008 at 6:03 pm
I did a Project like this. over 500 students in my school participated. It was called the H20 project. we gave up every kind of drink besides water for 2 weeks. the money we would of spent on those other drinks went for a well in India. I am so happy you are spreading awareness through the Rebalution.
Praying for you
Kara
November 25th, 2008 at 4:39 am
I’m sending $20 and my prayers. The next step is to spread the word to my friends.
November 25th, 2008 at 8:18 am
Thumbs up. It’s not as hard to make a difference as we like to pretend it is =)
My $20 is going in the mail today.
God Bless!
November 25th, 2008 at 11:25 am
Brett,
Thanks! I actually realized what it was when I got back on today and saw that it was up to 1,218. But thanks anyway!
Joshua Guthrie,
About the code boxes: to make something bold or italics you first put a at the end. At the ending of the sentance put a . It should look like this then this . Just without the spaces. I hope I explained it right!
By the way, I think what you are doing is wonderful and I know World Vision is a great ministry but did you know that Gospel for Asia you could buy eight wells in eight different locations for the same amount? Just thought I’d tell you. Keep up the hard work!
God bless!
Sarah.
November 25th, 2008 at 11:30 am
Joshua Guthrie,
I’m sorry! My whole comment got all mixed up! Just forget the part about the code boxes! I guess you will have to get someone else to explain it. Someone who knows much more about computers than I do!
God bless!
Sarah.
November 25th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
My dollar is going in the mail!
November 25th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
This is such an awesome idea!! I was just wondering… is the amount of money at the top of the post how much people have raised alone or how much money has been raised with the rebelution doubling it?
November 25th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Amazing!! I’m sending $10 asap!!! Thanks sooo… much!
November 25th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Wow! What an awesome idea!! My $200 is on its way.
I’m praying you will achieve your goal and more!
God bless.
November 25th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
hi guys,
Is it alright to send in foreign currency as in from new zealand?
November 25th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
My $20 will be in the mail very soon.
November 25th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Dude,
I totaly understand what you were feeling when you wanted to go ahead with your project, I’m going through the same thing except I’m a little stuck but reading about you has given me some motivation and ideas.
my money is on the way,
God Bless You
November 25th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
What a great opportunity to minister to the Sudanese people and make a difference! My $10 is on the way!
November 25th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
This is really neat!!!!
I’ve followed DfaD since Joshua first started talkin’ about it on the forums, the progress has been incredible!
Keep it up and God Bless!
Shalom,
Liza
November 25th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
This is so totally awesome! I’m seriously blown away. God is so awesome. Wow.
November 25th, 2008 at 5:52 pm
To add to my earlier question… we won’t be stop fundraising when we surpass the intended amount right? Would we possibly start funds for another well? I think we could do it..
… just wondering
November 25th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
oops i mean we won’t stop fundraising… sorry =]
November 25th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
Just to let you guys know, the total is now up to $1,450 (although I am sure it’s over that now, Alex e-mailed me this morning) Oh, and that includes the matching gifts.
November 26th, 2008 at 7:36 am
Joshua Guthrie,
Thanks! That is so awesome! I don’t know if one of my messages got through last night but I was wondering.. if we pass the intended amount of money we aren’t going to stop fundraising right? Would you possibly start funds for another well?
November 26th, 2008 at 7:51 am
Praise God!! That is awesome Josh!!
November 26th, 2008 at 10:18 am
Hope: The total at the top of this blog entry represents both the Rebelutionaries’ donations and the matching gift.
Victoria: While we would accept foreign currency, I would advice to send a check of some sort or donate over the internet, if possible.
To the rest of you: Thank thank thank you so much for the great encouragement and donations!
November 27th, 2008 at 6:19 am
I have been reading this site since May of this year, after I read “Do Hard Things” (Which I found so good I have reread it several times!) But until now, I haven’t commented… Anyway, here is my $15 towards the goal. I think this is a great project and I am blessed to see young people coming together to reach this goal.
November 27th, 2008 at 10:29 am
We are BLESSED to be a BLESSING!!
Thank you Joshua, and Alex and Brett too for raising awareness of the plight and poverty of our brothers and sisters overseas.
We get the WORLD VISION catalog in the mail and it nearly makes me cry every time I page through it and see all the yearning faces of the children. It makes me remember when Jesus said (In James?) that before we tell a person of Him we should take care of their physical needs first, clothe and feed them. And the awesomeness of such a task is dwarfed by the fact that we are doing it to JESUS Himself!
Hallelujah!
Because of Jesus, I can wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!
In Christ Alone,
Noella
November 27th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Hey Alex and Brett, are you guys still matching donations? If so, when do you stop matching? Thank you guys SO much for making us aware of this!!
Joshua, this is a great idea!! God bless you and your efforts!!! When do you stop collecting donations? Thank you!!
Your sister in Christ,
Abby
November 27th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!! I am just wondering, if we surpass the intended amount of money we are trying to fundraise, will we keep on going? Joshua, would you possibly start fundraising for another well? take your time answering me… enjoy your Thanksgiving!!
November 27th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
this is really cool im glad you doing this josh!!! my dollor or 2 will be there a.s.a.p.
November 27th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
we just started reading your book alex and bret (do hard things) and im really liking it!!!
god bless you guys
November 27th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Great idea!
God bless ya’ll!
Elisabeth
November 27th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
Noella: That is a good point: We really ARE blessed to be a blessing!
You also made a good point about Jesus telling us to attend to the physical needs of those who need him first, and then present the gospel. I am so happy that you are excited about the project!
I will say however, this is all possible thanks to God. People keep on thanking ME for this thing that I’m doing and the opportunity that I am giving others to help. But in reality, I am only a tool. Who do you thank more: The blacksmith or his hammer?
Just something to think about. 
Abby: Alex and Brett will be matching donations up until you guys (the Rebelutionaries) donate $1,000. Of course, you all can donate beyond that, (
) but Alex and Brett will only match $1,000.
As to when I will stop accepting donations, the answer is that I really won’t. The goal is to have all of the money before Christmas, but if we have to go beyond that, we will. The only thing is, there is a well set aside by BGR for a specific village, and they are counting on us! We really need to pray that we get the money in ASAP! Once we do reach the goal however, we are planning on stopping promoting the project until next year (October, like this year)
And to the rest of you: Thanks again for all of the wonderful encouragement!
November 28th, 2008 at 4:55 am
Howdy! Looks like y’all are over your goal! Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!! And y’all did it in about 8 days!!!!!
Liza
November 28th, 2008 at 7:11 am
Wow! This is amazing. I’m hoping to donate, but I have to give the details to my mom first.
November 28th, 2008 at 10:21 am
$25 is on the way!
-Us
November 28th, 2008 at 10:33 am
GOAL REACHED!!! YEEEEEHAAAA!!!
…
Erm, sorry, but it’s just so exciting!
Thank you guys so so so very much for all that you have done to help me in this endeavor! A special thanks goes to Alex and Brett for promoting the project here on the Rebelution. Thanks so much guys!
November 28th, 2008 at 11:01 am
o thats soooo awesome!!!!!!!! good job
November 28th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Happy Thanksgiving! Thank you for sharing.
God bless you my friends.
November 28th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Yes!!!!!
November 28th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
are all you guys american
November 28th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
i really want to go to your guyses comference it sounds realy good:)
November 28th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
YAY!!!!!!!!
November 29th, 2008 at 5:55 pm
This is so amazing guys. Last week I was looking through the World Vision Catalog. As I turned to the page about their well digging project, I was shocked to see the picture of the little boy who had an incredibly swollen stomach because of his lack of pure water. The Lord impressed upon my heart that I needed to do something for these precious people that are dying because of their lack of physical water and the Living Water. The very next day I saw your post about this project. I am so excited to be joining in!
November 29th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Wow that is so cool!!
November 29th, 2008 at 8:19 pm
Praise the Lord!!!
November 29th, 2008 at 8:33 pm
I love seeing us at the front of the line in prosperity helping those who are weighed down in poverty- my $5 has been donated! I’m prayin for the whole process! Praise God for those who are stepping out to do these hard things!
November 30th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Over $2,000 nice!!!!!!
December 1st, 2008 at 8:13 am
I donated $5 through the Dollar for a Drink site. I heard about the AWESOME project when I checked the Rebelution blog on Saturday and did the donation straight away. I don’t know how you can track it to match it but if you can, please do so. Some info that may help is that I live in South Africa and I donated using a Mastercard.
I pray that Joshua reaches his goal. It really shouldn’t be that hard - more than 8000 people move through my local mall each Saturday. If each one just gave a single little dollar……..just imagine!
This has inspired my daughters (aged 11 & 7, homeschooled) to do something similar in the new year. Pray that we’ll soon here where God would like us to focus our efforts.
December 1st, 2008 at 1:36 pm
What a great example of a rebelutionairy. Hope you make your goal Josh!
December 1st, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Alex: Since you have reached your goal of two thousand dollars are you still matching money donations?
December 1st, 2008 at 8:07 pm
I fully support your effort Joshua, and I’m glad you’ve taken the initiative so many lack.
I do support, but I must say this. I don’t think it fair, to exclude people who aren’t Christians. I don’t mean not accept their money. I am not Christian, not of any religion. I appreciate your drive, but I dislike the idea that people who don’t believe in Christianity can’t do good things for others. Non believers can take the same initiative, and I’m simply saying… Please appreciate other people’s need to help.
I can’t say that I “pray” for your success, but I will spread the word, and hope for your success.
May your God bless you.
December 1st, 2008 at 9:25 pm
La rebelución
The official translation to spanish…
Wait for it! …Pray for it!
May God bring many latins and spanish speakers to His feet.
December 2nd, 2008 at 6:58 am
Hi there,
After reading this post, I just wanted to share some thoughts, which perhaps Joshua migh find helpful.
I am currently a student studying in South Africa, and recently learned about the ecological problems associated with water schemes. Personally, I feel that the benefits outweigh the problems with such schemes. However, if the problems are not carefully considered, a situation worse than the first can result. The following is an extract from an article entitled, “”Desertification” of the Sahel– Exploring the Role of Property Rights”
“As the French dug new wells, they established no clear ownership rights, which led to overgrazing (Sterling 1974). The veterinary and medical campaigns increased the populations of both humans and animals, putting further pressure on the land. With no one to regulate the use of new wells, the larger populations intensified the level of overgrazing. The French hoped that nomads would slaughter more cattle for the market. But to hold on to what wealth they had, the nomads tended to maintain the largest herds possible.
Collectively owned land led to deforestation as well as overgrazing. Forests were depleted as individuals collected wood for burning. Trees and ground cover are necessary to help maintain the soil in the farm lands. Without them, the soil breaks down, gradually turning the area into barren wastelands.”
The article continues with further negative effects.
My advice for this project would be to institute very clear ownership rights of the surrounding land, as well as to consider carefully the carrying capacity of the land itself. The people living in the area should also be educated about correct water usage, irrigation and agricultural methods.
Graham
December 2nd, 2008 at 10:43 am
Hallelujah!! Thank the Lord!!
December 2nd, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Jacob: I don’t think that we are saying that people who aren’t Christian can’t make a difference… Surely NonChristians can do good things for others.. but when Christians do good things for others it is all for the Glory of God. I think that all people should take the initiative to help people that are less fortunate than them. I’m glad that you are hoping for success in Joshua’s Project and please do spread the word to Christians and NonChristians alike!!
Everyone can help!!! 
December 4th, 2008 at 7:26 am
Hey guys!
I am so glad I can be a part in something like this! I gave $5 and my little brother gave $2! He was pretty excited! This is a great opportunity for Anyone to get involved to help people, and show God’s love!!!
December 5th, 2008 at 6:31 am
Graham,
Thanks very much for your thoughts. You point is well taken. Thankfully, BGR, through whom we are building the wells, specializes in community development and has done projects all over the world. So they will approach the building of the wells from the standpoint of whole-community development, not just the meeting of a pressing need.
To all you rebelutionaries, including the Harris brothers, thanks for supporting Joshua in this important effort!
December 6th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Here’s a question: if we keep sending in the money, are you gonna buy another well?
December 6th, 2008 at 8:42 pm
I second Elizabeth’s question! I somehow missed reading this project in time and would love to know if there’s still some way to help in the future. : )
December 7th, 2008 at 7:29 am
Elizabeth and Caitlin: Well, if I get excess money, then it will be set towards the next well. However, we are planning on shutting down after Christmas, but then we will start back up next September (and make it a yearly thing). So don’t worry, you will both have another chance at this!
December 8th, 2008 at 10:46 am
this is soooooooooooooooooo cool! i am glad you’ll are doing it
December 8th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
[...] I have been reading the rebelution blog for quite awhile now, and recently, I read a post http://www.therebelution.com/blog/2008/11/joshua-guthrie-dollar-for-a-drink/ about a project to raise $8,000 by Christmas 2008– for a fresh water well in Sudan. There is a great need for fresh water in Sudan. They have the highest level of people in the world with access only to contaminated water– 12.3 million!! Dollar for a Drink has raised $5,335 currently. This project was started by someone rather unexpected- a 16 year old boy. This is a great project, and I would highly recomend helping them out this holiday season. [...]
December 8th, 2008 at 5:13 pm
Hope: I understand that this effort is for the Glory of God… My only issue is, why can’t it be for the glory of helping people, regardless of whether you believe in God or not. Just glory for the sake of that happiness that you’re giving.
December 9th, 2008 at 8:29 am
Hey Joshua, I was wondering what the amount you have raised in total? Something is wrong with my computer so at the top is still says that you’ve raised $630.
Thanks!
December 9th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
$100 is on the way! May the Lord less this ministry richly.
December 9th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
Bless this holy effort! $300 dollars being sent to the glory of God!
December 10th, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Gotcha. Thanks Josh! God bless!
December 11th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Jackie M.: I would suggest that you refresh the page. The total of received donations is about $5,940. Of course we still have the $1,000 to receive from the Harris brothers, as well as several other promised donations. Thanks for asking!
December 12th, 2008 at 6:05 am
One hand pump- you have no idea how many women and children will drink, cook, and bath from one hand pump. I know, I spent ten weeks in Sudan last year. Many times there is a long line of people waiting their turn to get clean water, lines of yellow jugs waiting to be filled. Oh that the church would be the center of such activity- all seeking the living water that is eternally sustaining.
Looks like God has this project nearly wrapped up- What is His next project for you?
Keep on, Steve
December 12th, 2008 at 9:08 am
$30 on the way. God bless.
December 12th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Hey,
Quick question . . . if i still send my money to Alex and Brett to give to Joshua, will they still match it?
December 12th, 2008 at 8:12 pm
YES! Awsome idea. Give up a small luxury, for something essential and life giving. May these people also experience the eternal living water that never dissatisfies!
December 13th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
This is my first time on your site. This is awesome. I donated five dollars.
December 13th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Joshua,
I don’t know if you remember me, but I met you at Yellowstone one year. I will be praying for you and am sending $20 right away!
December 14th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Julia: Alex and Brett are matching donations up to $1,000, and the Rebelution has already reached that. So no, they won’t match your gift, although it will still be much appreciated! I will say though, you need to send the money to me and the DfaD project, and not to the Harris brothers.
Elyssa: Hey, I do remember you! It’s good to see you on the Rebelution!
It’s a great place, isn’t it? Thanks for your prayers!
December 14th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Okay Joshua,
Thanks. I will do that!
December 15th, 2008 at 6:33 pm
okay . . . one more question - is there a mailing address for me to send my money to? And who should checks be made to?
December 16th, 2008 at 6:20 pm
Julia: Yes, there is a mailing address under the “contacts” page of the website, and checks may be made to “Dollar for a Drink”
December 18th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
I’ll be starting my Eagle Project soon, I’ll see whether or not they’ll let me start a campaign for it.
December 19th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!!! The DfaD goal has been reached!!!!!!!
December 25th, 2008 at 10:48 am
Are you guys going to update the amount we’ve raised? I’m so excited that we’ve paid for possibly a whole well!
Thanks for passing this out, Alex and Brett!
December 28th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
I donated $100.
Thank you Josh for starting this! I hope it will continue far into the future and that MANY wells will be donated!
December 29th, 2008 at 11:02 am
Hey, all… Does anyone know the final after-Christmas results’s of Josh’s challenge? After donating, I have been praying heavily for this effort. I love watching the Lord Jesus work miracles for the glory and praise of HIS name, and am curious to see what He chose to do this time!
Is it true (RE: Julia’s message on the 19th) that the well is paid for in full now? How awesome that would be… Praise Jesus! I am inspired…
Thanks, L
January 1st, 2009 at 4:29 pm
Hi. Sorry about the email adress I picked it when I was like 7 or 8 and never changed it. Any way, I am almost done with the book do hard things and I just wanted to let you two know that GOD has used you both in amazing ways. Reading this book makes me just want to go out and do more things GOD. I will pray for you guys and pray that GOD uses you guys in amazing ways. GOD Bless you both.
April 5th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
I am really encouraged by blog posts. Even though i’m 13, and don’t exactly understand everything here, this blog is really helping me out. I like the idea for the digging wells in sudan fundraising thing.
God bless.
April 5th, 2009 at 1:35 pm
in the last comment, i meant to say (i am really encouraged by YOUR blog posts)
oops!