Agua Para La Vida is a non-governmental organization which has been helping small rural communities in Nicaragua construct their own drinking water systems since 1987. Originally a California-based group that provided technical assistance, support and volunteers working directly with the Nicaraguan communities, it now supports the development of a local team of technicians capable of taking over all aspects of the work: selection of projects, design, collaboration with and training of the beneficiaries, supervision of the construction, maintenance and hygiene education, and ultimately the ability to secure its own funding.