The HWS stations are simple, easy to construct do-it-yourself designs that are highly durable, provide hands-free operation via a foot pump, and high-capacity use with up to 500 hand washings per filling. To date RF and their volunteers have built 653 HWS. RF and FRC plan to build an additional 15 HWS together. In addition to working with volunteers, RF is also training local Hopi and Navajo community groups to build the stations independently to meet demand and strengthen local capacity to respond to crisis situations, such as the COVID pandemic.
Navajo Nation experienced the highest COVID-19 infection rates in the country per-capita, with Hopi also being severely impacted. To help reduce the spread of infectious diseases (such as COVID), washing hands for a minimum of 20 seconds is recommended. With limited water supplies (U.S. Census estimated 30 percent of Navajo homes do not have running water) this can be extremely challenging. Improving access to hand washing in communities without running water can reduce this alarming percentage and protect lives through reducing the spread of a variety of diseases and improving general health and hygiene.
Though doubly important during COVID, having access to proper hygiene is an essential component to living a healthy and productive life at any time. Numerous studies have shown that children with access to sanitation systems and healthier environments do better in school and have better chances of reaching their goals and participating in their communities. Additionally, RF efforts to train community groups to construct the HWS locally helps build resilience against future disasters by increasing local capacity.
RF and Flagstaff Rotary members, family and friends (12-15 individuals) will work collaboratively to construct 15 HWS in approximately 8 hours. FRC members will be involved in every aspect of the construction - a relatively simple process that uses hand tools and is accessible to a wide range of skills sets. Also available for participation is delivery on the reservations to interested Rotarians.
A grant will be made to Red Feather, which is a 26-year-old 501(c)3 nonprofit. RF utilizes QuickBooks to track and report on all organizational revenue and expense transactions. RF utilizes a staff accountant to prepare financial statements which are reviewed monthly by the Executive Director and Board of Directors. RF adheres to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. Financial reports and IRS 990 information is available upon request. Receipts will be copied and provided to Flagstaff Rotary. RF has successfully managed numerous federal, private, corporate and academic grants.
Flagstaff Rotary Club has successfully partnered with RF in the past and we look forward to doing so again. As done before, we will publicize the project through a press release, local newspaper, social media, as well as the resources available to Red Feather.
Regarding expenses, vendors for parts are various and changeable. We will provide receipts in final report.
This is the second application for D5495 2021-22 funds. Though we hope to get this one funded, it is our second priority for this year.
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