The H20 club claims that the mission is simple: “to get clean water to every single person who needs it.” To meet this goal, the club sells Hurley Merchandise to raise money for water filters that are distributed to developing areas with good waves for surfing.

This is a brand new club that was started by sophomore Stella Kaplan and her brother, senior Eli Kaplan. This summer, the Kaplans traveled to Nicaragua. While they were there, they met up with Rob Machado, a professional surfer. Machado started raising money for filters while he was in high school. Because he was sponsored by Hurley, they said they would provide merchandise in support of the cause. With Machado and the Hurley team, the Kaplans distributed water filters in many areas of Nicaragua with good surf.

“It was an amazing experience that changed the way I think when turning on the faucet,” Stella Kaplan said.

After working with Machado and the Hurley team, the team asked the Kaplan’s if they would start a club at AHS.

“I believe in the importance of access to clean water in third world countries. Contaminated water is the number one cause of death in many of those areas. When the Kaplans asked me to sponsor the club, I was happy to do it,” said Melissa Lustig, a college counselor at AHS.

With almost 60 members, the club has been very successful. They have written to the Hurley team and told them what their goals are for the club. They hope to be receiving the merchandise shortly. The club’s goal is to raise enough money to buy water filters and then take a trip to an area that needs fresh water and deliver the filters to the people. The club meets every other Monday during tutorial.

“I think the club is for a great cause. I am so happy to be a part of it because it’s very organized and I know that I am helping other people,” said sophomore Mackenzie Langley.

The club hopes to continue to grow and raise money so they can achieve their goal and help as many people as they can.