About Us
The Ryan’s Well Foundation grew from the commitment of one boy, Ryan Hreljac, who learned of the great need for clean and safe water in developing countries in his 1st grade class. With the support of friends, family and the community, Ryan raised enough money to build a well in Africa. In 1999, at age seven, Ryan's first well was built at Angolo Primary School in northern Uganda. To this day, the well continues to serve the community.
Although Ryan started raising money for water projects in 1998, the Foundation was not formed until 2001. Since then, Ryan’s Well has helped build over 600 water and sanitation projects in 16 countries bringing safe water and improved sanitation services to over 685,000 people.
Here is a quick glance of what we’re all about:
- The Ryan’s Well Foundation is a Canadian registered charity (charitable registration # 88858 7110 RR0001)
- In the past four years, an average 87 cents of every dollar donated directly supports our charitable programs.
- The Foundation has helped build 602 water projects in 16 countries, bringing safe water and sanitation services to 685,035 people.
- In 2008 and 2009, Ryan, Ambassadors and staff made approximately 100 appearances throughout Canada, the Middle East and Asia.
Now, the work of Ryan’s Well has become the story of countless people, young and old, from across the world who are inspired to take responsibility and make a difference either in their own communities, or like Ryan, in faraway places. Ryan’s story has made people realize that anyone, even kids in Grade 1, can make a difference.