Story: Help Bring Clean Water to Off-Grid Families in the San Luis Valley

Our Mission

The Off-Grid Community Water Foundation is a newly forming nonprofit dedicated to solving one of the most urgent problems in southern Colorado: lack of reliable access to water. Hundreds of off-grid and rural families in the San Luis Valley must travel long distances or pay unaffordable rates just to fill a cistern for basic household needs.

We are committed to providing affordable, reliable bulk water delivery at cost — ensuring that no family goes without this essential resource.

Why We Need Your Help

Starting a nonprofit water service requires upfront investment to:

Secure and equip bulk water tanks for delivery

Obtain permits from the Colorado Division of Water Resources and CDPHE

Establish initial supply contracts with Blanca Water District, Ojo Springs, and Fort Garland

Cover basic startup costs (insurance, compliance, nonprofit registration, etc.)

We are seeking $5,500 in seed funding to cover the critical first 6 months of operation.

Why This Matters

Water is a human right. Families in Costilla County and the greater San Luis Valley should not have to choose between paying for groceries or hauling water.

We start with 40 households ready to join our program in Year 1, growing to 200 by Year 5.

Long-term sustainability. Once launched, our water delivery system will be fully self-sustaining through affordable household service fees.

Who We Are

I am Wesley Barnett, CEO of the Off-Grid Community Water Foundation, and a proud member of the Cherokee Nation. Together with Founder Dudney Donovan and a committed Board of Directors, we bring decades of experience in water management, engineering, and community service.

How You Can Help

Your donation will:

Fund the launch of Colorado’s first nonprofit community water delivery system

Directly impact the health and stability of families in need

Support sustainable, community-led infrastructure

No donation is too small. Every dollar brings us closer to ensuring no family is left without water.