The Delta Upsilon and Delta Gamma Water Project is seeking donations from the OU community to build wells in earthquake-ravaged Haiti.

One hundred percent of the proceeds will be used to build clean water wells in Haiti, said Conner McMakin, Delta Upsilon philanthropy chairman.

Groups will set up stations around campus to sell “I’m Giving Water” wristbands for $2 and T-shirts for $10.

McMakin and Katie Specht, Delta Gamma philanthropy chairwoman, said they know many people want to help but are unsure of the best way.

McMakin and Specht are working directly with The Water Project and said they have full faith and trust in this organization.

“We are maximizing as much as we could possibly do to provide and give to this organization,” Specht said. “[The Water Project is] promising us such a quick turnaround time for building wells. We know that this is a legitimate organization that’s done so many good things already that it’s just something that you can put your trust in, and it’s something that OU will be represented by.”

The fundraiser is not strictly associated with the Delta Upsilon fraternity or the Delta Gamma sorority, but organizers are seeking support from all groups and individuals on campus.

According to The Water Project, more than one-third of the world’s population does not have access to sanitation facilities. Worldwide, one in every four deaths under the age of 5 is caused by disease related to water.

Haiti, the most impoverished nation in the Western hemisphere, is facing a humanitarian crisis since the Jan. 12 earthquake that killed thousands and left even more injured and homeless.

McMakin said Feb. 22 is the fundraising deadline, but any money received after the date still will go to The Water Project.

The organizations that raise the most money will win awards, but McMakin said the competition is not a focus of the drive.

“Hopefully people get the message that it’s not necessarily about what you win because you’ve raised money, it’s the self-gratitude that you get for giving and saving people’s lives,” he said. “That is what this is about.

“I am a huge believer in reaping what you sow, and I honestly feel if you give to those in need it’s going to come back to you somehow.”

Those interested in learning more about this organization may visit www.thewaterproject.com.