“Waters Connecting Lives” a fabulous philanthropic celebration in Altos de Chavon!

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On Saturday the 5th of January 2013, the opening of the art exhibit “Waters Connecting Lives” was celebrated – a fabulous initiative to improve the system of clean drinking water in the Dominican Republic, with the support of numerous Casa de Campo residents, visitors and villa owners in Altos de Chavon – including famous ceramic artists Mayra González and Emilio Robba. 

The “Waters Connecting Lives” project was brought to Altos de Chavón and Casa de Campo by FilterPure Inc., (called “AquaPure” locally), a non-profit foundation whose mission is to bring desperately needed pure drinking water to the people of developing nations, and currently working with communities in Haiti – by providing families with ceramic water filters. This open event aimed to raise both awareness and funds for this honorable cause. On display around the gallery were the most basic ceramic water filters – presented in plastic buckets, these systems being the ones distributed in rural communities bringing life changing clean water to these areas. Also on display were beautiful ceramic water filters designed  by ceramics artists Emilio Robba, Mayra Gonzalez and Lisa Ballentine – these much more intricate and beautiful versions of the same filter were (and continue to be on sale) for the cause – and would make a wonderful addition to any Casa de Campo villa as not only a purifying water system but also a beautiful piece of art.

Intricate designs by Emilio Robba in Altos de Chavón

Held on the 2nd floor of the Altos de Chavon art gallery, the art exhibit “Waters Connecting Lives” welcomed guests with cocktails and live music provided with “Benny & the Cupids”, a talented musical group who interpreted a wide repertoire of international hits, from “Love is a Losing Game” by Amy Winehouse to the most popular songs by Maná (a latin rock group). The welcome address was given by Lisa Ballentine, who also shared with the public her numerous experiencies as a missionary in some of the most vulnerable communities of the world, whilst also encouraging guests to buy so that with the funds raised filters can be installed in communities which currently are in urgent need of clean drinking water. Lisa was joined by Radhames Carela, who helped her invent this new water filter system and who enthusiastically explained a little about how they work. Also in attendance was Mayra González, who so passionate about the cause was actually moved to tears on several occasions – and who also happend to use one of the filters for drinking water in her own home. The exhibit “Waters Connecting Lives” will remain open on the 2nd floor of the Altos de Chavón art gallery until the 2nd of February – we hope you take the time to take a look – this system really is very impressive and will with the right support without a doubt make a huge positive impact in the lives of those most in need. The following is a selection of photos taken during the Opening of the “Waters Connecting Lives” art exhibit, celebrated on Saturday the 5th of January 2013 in the 2nd floor of the Altos de Chavon art gallery: 

How do Filter Pure filters work? Are they really safe for your family? The simple answer is that “dirty” water filters through the specially prepared ceramic pot and this filter process removes all the impurities leaving the water clean, pure and drinkable for you and your family. The following is a more in-depth explanation of how the filter is created and how it works: The technology of the water filter is simple, effective, and, sustainable. A round-bottom ceramic pot is made from a mixture of clay, a combustible material (sawdust or rice husks), and colloidal silver. The colloidal silver is a naturally occurring anti-bacterial which improves the bacteria removal rate for the filter. First, the clay and combustible are mixed with a measured amount of silver and water until a homogeneous mixture is formed. The mixture is made into a filter and kiln fired, burning out the combustible material and leaving micro pores coated with the silver to clean the water. During the firing process, about ½ inch of charcoal is produced within the filter to improve taste and color. The filter, which is designed with a rim, is placed on a five gallon plastic storage bucket with a spigot at the bottom for dispensing. A lid is placed on the filter to prevent contamination. When used, water is poured through the ceramic pot and filtered into the receptacle bucket. Safe drinking water is easily poured from the spigot by all members of the household. The flow rate of the filter ranges from 20 to 30 liters per day depending upon how often the filter is refilled. Filters are cleaned by lightly scrubbing the surface when flow rate is reduced, and it is recommended that the filter is boiled every three months to insure optimum effectiveness. The effective useful life of the filter is at least 5 years. To read even more about Filter Pure, please visit their website: www.filterpurefilters.org