3.12.2008 - 10:51am ET

(CSRwire) WASHINGTON, March 12 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In recognition of World Water Day - a day designated by the United Nations as a reminder of the escalating global water crisis - PlayPumps International honors five individuals and organizations that have been instrumental 'heroes' in the effort to bring clean drinking water to some of the more than 1.1 billion people who lack it.

"The Hero Award recognizes the countless efforts and strong commitment the recipients have made to bring clean, life-giving water to those in need," said Dale Jones CEO of PlayPumps International. "The support of these five people and organizations is truly invaluable and has restored the health and well-being of many men, women and children in sub-Saharan Africa."

2007 PlayPumps International Hero Award Recipients:

-- Alexander B. Cummings, Coca-Cola Africa Foundation

Alex Cummings is President and Chief Operating Officer of Coca-Cola Africa as well as Chairman of the Coca-Cola Africa Foundation. Alex's leadership has been instrumental to Coca-Cola's water stewardship and partnership with PlayPumps International.
-- Kate Grabowksi-Clark, Teacher

Kate Grabowski-Clark is a veteran educator in Glastonbury, CT and the leader of Glastonbury school district's Water 4 Water fundraising effort. In 2006 the small project began selling bottled water, but quickly grew into a community-wide effort. Thus far it has resulted in the donation of one PlayPump water system and Water 4 Water is working towards the donation of a second PlayPump water system to an African community. Water 4 Water has also been recognized by Senator Joseph Lieberman with the "Joe's Heroes Award".

-- One Water

One Water, created by Duncan Goose, donates the profits from sales of its bottled water to fund PlayPump(R) water systems. Just a few years since its launch in the UK, One Water has already achieved great success, donating more than 100 PlayPump systems. They will now leverage this momentum, entering into the global marketplace in 2008, including the US.

-- River Bennett, Youth Advocate

River Bennett, a high school student from Nantucket, MA is known throughout his community for his philanthropic efforts. By working with local businesses and community groups, as well as organizing a Swimathon at his high school, River is helping people connect with water issues at home, and in turn helping Africans access clean drinking water.

-- Save the Children

Save the Children is the leading independent organization creating lasting change for children in need around the world, and a partner of PlayPumps International in the Gaza province of Mozambique. At schools that have a PlayPump water system, Save the Children provides crucial health and hygiene education to students through their School Health and Nutrition program.

About PlayPumps International

PlayPumps International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and their families by providing access to clean drinking water, enhancing public health, and offering play equipment to millions across Africa through the PlayPump(R) Water System. The PlayPump system is an innovative and sustainable, merry-go-round water pump powered by children at play. To date, more than 1000 PlayPump water systems have been donated to schools and communities in South Africa, Mozambique, Swaziland and Zambia. The organization's goal is to provide the benefits of clean drinking water to up to 10 million people by 2010. For more information, visit www.playpumps.org.