DUPAGE, Ill. (January 17, 2017) — Rep. Peter Roskam (IL-06) today honored World Vision’s Steve Spear for his dedication to World Vision’s efforts to bring clean water to children and communities around the world.
In 2013, Spear ran across the United States to raise more than $500,000 for clean water and sanitation projects in Africa. During his run, Spear ran about one marathon daily, five days per week for more than five months.
“It was a true honor,” said Spear. “Clean water is such a critical need globally. It’s a privilege to inspire and equip Americans to join the effort to provide this lifesaving resource to children around the world. Having that work recognized is truly humbling.”
“Steve has demonstrated exceptional charity and service, and I am proud to represent him,” said U.S. Rep. Peter J. Roskam. “He is a leader and role model for all Americans.”
Nearly 1,000 children under age 5 die every day from diarrhea caused by contaminated water, poor sanitation and improper hygiene. World Vision provided improved access to clean water to 2.3 million people in 2015 alone and provides clean water and sanitation to one new person every 30 seconds.
This May, World Vision will host a Global 6K run to raise funding for water and sanitation programs. The distance is significant: 6 kilometers is the average distance people – usually women and girls – walk to get water for their families and homes. For more information about the event, visit www.worldvision6k.org
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About World Vision:
World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization conducting relief, development, and advocacy activities in its work with children, families, and their communities in nearly 100 countries to help them reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. For more information, please visit www.WorldVision.org/media-center/ or on Twitter @WorldVisionUSA.