From Wells to Opportunity: How WHOlives Is Transforming Communities Through Water, Innovation & Empowerment
In this inspiring episode of the Are You Happy? podcast, we sat down with Mike Anderson, Director of Operations at WHOlives, a nonprofit changing the world—one well, one life, one community at a time.
Mike’s journey from successful entrepreneur to nonprofit leader is a powerful reminder of the deep fulfillment found in service. After years of running his own business, he walked away from the hustle for something more meaningful. What he found was WHOlives—a mission-driven organization delivering Water, Health, and Opportunity to communities in developing countries.
A Smarter Way to Deliver Water
At the core of WHOlives' work is a revolutionary tool: the Village Drill—a human- or electric-powered drill that bores wells 75% more efficiently and cost-effectively than traditional methods. But what truly sets them apart is their empowerment model.
Rather than simply donating wells, WHOlives provides interest-free loans and mentorship to local drilling teams. The result? Ownership, sustainability, and a community that’s invested in maintaining its own future.
“When a community owns their water, they protect it, maintain it, and use it to transform their future.” – Mike Anderson
Beyond Water: Economic Ripples of Change
Clean water is only the beginning. In places like Vihiga, Kenya, access to water has led to the creation of 30+ small businesses in just one year—including sewing centers, beekeeping, and brick-making.
These businesses, backed by microloans and business training, show just how powerfully water unlocks opportunity.
Empowering Women & Ending Harm
Access to clean water significantly reduces the time women and girls spend collecting water. But WHOlives goes even further—addressing deep-rooted issues like FGM (female genital mutilation).
Through partnerships with local law enforcement, they've supported the creation of child-friendly courthouses in Kenya, where young girls can safely confront their abusers and seek justice.
“It’s not just about water—it’s about restoring dignity, safety, and opportunity.”
Corporate Partnerships & Global Impact
WHOlives collaborates with businesses, NGOs, and universities to scale its mission. From donating diamond drilling bits to matching payroll donations, companies like Ulterra Drilling Systems are helping fund entire village water systems.
They also send teams on impact missions, allowing employees to witness their company’s contribution in action—often coming home profoundly changed.
The Human Side of Impact
These mission trips aren’t just about helping others—they’re designed to impact the volunteers. Whether it’s teens finding new purpose or adults moved to tears, the takeaway is clear: even small actions can lead to lasting change.
Mike shared a standout moment—becoming the very first customer of a young Kenyan entrepreneur whose business was launched thanks to WHOlives. That $8 transaction symbolized a future of self-reliance and dignity.
What’s Next for WHOlives?
- The new Hybrid Village Drill: Now with electric-power capabilities, enabling faster and deeper drilling.
- Expanded business mentorship programs: Fostering hundreds of new local businesses.
- 2026 Impact Trips: 2025 is fully booked, but opportunities to join life-changing missions in 2026 are now open.
Want to Make a Difference?
Visit wholives.org to:
- Donate to a water project
- Become a corporate partner
- Register for a 2026 impact mission trip
- Read real stories of impact in African communities
“We can't save everyone, but we can make a world of difference to the one.”
