MCFARLAND, Wis. (WKOW) — Community members gathered on Saturday for the annual Walk for Water event, aiming to raise funds for sustainable wells in Ugandan villages.
This effort, now in its sixth year, has significantly impacted the lives of many Ugandans by providing access to clean water.
The event was led by Gudrun Sinderman and Ron Vanderberg, who have been instrumental in this cause since its inception. They were inspired to start the initiative after visiting Uganda with others from McFarland Lutheran Church and witnessing the dire need for clean water.
“We came back just deeply moved, because I can’t imagine not having water on tap whenever I wanted,” Sinderman said. “It moved us and the McFarland Church and the community to really support these people, and we raise money every year to drill borehole wells that are sustainable for up to 50 years.”
The organization has successfully funded 17 wells, transforming the lives of many Ugandan residents. Vanderberg emphasized the profound effect of their work.
“The leader of the well drilling there said, ‘Thank you for providing us with so many wells. You have saved hundreds of lives,’” Vanderberg said. “That’s really a strong testament to what clean water does and why we do what we do.”
The event featured a three-mile walk symbolizing the distance Ugandans often travel to collect water. Participants also took part in a silent auction with items donated by local businesses and artisans.
“We get terrific donations from businesses and just craftsmen,” Sinderman said. “Everybody participates. It’s awesome.”
