Jim Hocking grew up in the Central African Republic which fostered in him a deep love for the country and its people. He saw first-hand that people’s basic physical needs were unmet, AIDS was ravaging the region, and the realities of poverty and war were creating hopelessness. Jim wanted to build something with the people of CAR that would be sustainable and could withstand political upheaval.

In an act of obedience, 2004 was the beginning of what Jim would eventually call “Water for Good.” There are many challenges to getting fresh water to remote villages and getting a well drilled is only the first step. Jim knew the well pumps would inevitably break and the village would be right back where it started: without safe drinking water. He knew sustainability was key to the success of any well, so along with the Drilling Team, Jim also created a Maintenance Team.

Now, more than 880,000 Central Africans are drinking water from these wells every day. People are staying healthy, generating more income, and making a difference in their communities —for good.