Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ Knowledge Base
FAQ about Donor Resources, who we are, what we do, partners, technology, and how you can get involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most from donors, NGO partners, and friends of WaterStep. Do not see your question here? Contact us directly.
General Mission
What does WaterStep do?
WaterStep provides safe water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions to communities facing water crises around the world. We do this through three interconnected approaches: deploying patented water treatment technology, training local operators and NGO partners, and responding to disasters with rapid water relief.
Where does WaterStep work?
WaterStep has completed projects in 72 countries. Our work focuses on regions where access to safe water is most needed, with active and recent programs in partnership with local organizations. See our Global Impact page for a current map of where we operate.
Is WaterStep a registered nonprofit?
Yes. WaterStep, Inc. is an international safe water organization, incorporated as a Kentucky nonprofit and qualified under U.S. Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3). Donations to WaterStep are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by federal and state law. Our financials, audited reports, and Form 990 filings are publicly available on our Financials page.
Donations
How do I donate to WaterStep?
You can make secure credit card donations online or over the phone by calling (502) 568-6342. Checks can be mailed to: WaterStep, 625 Myrtle Street, Louisville, KY 40208. We also accept ACH bank transfer and other secure payment methods through our online donation platform.
Other ways to give
Donor Advised Funds and Stock: For donations of stock or gifts through a Donor Advised Fund, please contact Tony Magaba at Tony.Magaba@waterstep.org.
Legacy Giving: For information about including WaterStep in your estate plans or making a legacy gift, please contact Jenny Giacalone at Jenny.Giacalone@waterstep.org.
Can I designate my gift to a specific program or region?
Yes. WaterStep offers designated giving options that allow you to direct your gift to a specific program, region, or emergency response. Visit our designated giving page to learn more.
Does WaterStep accept recurring gifts?
Yes, monthly giving is one of the most impactful ways to support WaterStep. A recurring gift ensures we can plan ahead, respond faster, and reach more communities. Set up a monthly gift here.
How much of my donation goes directly to programs?
WaterStep is committed to directing the maximum possible percentage of donations to direct program work, with a smaller portion covering administrative and fundraising costs. Our most recent program expense ratio and full financial breakdown are published in our annual report. View our audited financials, 990 filings, and impact reports on our Financials page.
When do I get my tax receipt?
Donor acknowledgements are sent when gifts are received. If you have not received an acknowledgement within a few weeks of giving, please reach out to our team and we will be happy to look into it.
Where can I find WaterStep’s 990 tax form?
WaterStep’s Form 990 tax filings, along with our audited financials and annual reports, are publicly available on our Financials page.
NGO Partners
How can my NGO partner with WaterStep?
We work with NGOs around the world to deploy water solutions in their communities. The first step is completing our partner inquiry form. Our team will follow up to discuss your community’s needs and how WaterStep can help.
What does a WaterStep NGO partnership look like?
Every partnership is different, but most follow a similar path: initial inquiry, needs assessment, technology match, deployment and training, and ongoing support. We work alongside your team, not instead of them.
Can NGOs purchase WaterStep technology for their own programs?
Yes. WaterStep’s technology is available for purchase by NGOs, governments, and other organizations. Visit our Solutions page to learn more, or contact us directly to discuss your needs.
Technology
What technology does WaterStep use?
WaterStep’s core technologies include the BleachMaker (an on-site disinfectant generation system), the ChlorineGenerator (a water purification system that relies on chlorine gas and can treat 10K gallons of water daily), the EXP-50 Portable Hand Drilling System, and the WOWCart for emergency water relief, among others. All of our technology is field-tested, durable, patented, and designed to operate without complex infrastructure. See the full product portfolio on our Solutions page.
Is WaterStep’s technology patented?
Yes. WaterStep’s technologies incorporate patented and proprietary innovations developed in-house. Our patented technology is designed for use by NGO partners and commercial customers around the world. See our Technology page for details on each product.
