Values, Integrity, and Generosity: Meet Cletus Conover
In early 2026, the people of Moriyok village in South Sudan gathered to celebrate a transformational gift. For the first time, the 12,000 people who call this remote community home have access to reliable, safe water thanks to a solar-powered water yard and borehole—a deep, narrow well. But flowing water was not the only thing celebrated that day. The borehole is dedicated to Cletus Conover, the individual who made its installation possible.
Cletus’s commitment to service began early. As a Boy Scout, and later an Eagle Scout, Cletus embraced values that have guided him throughout his life. Key among these was the commitment to help others and try to lead the “life of service.” He also took inspiration from the parable of the traveler from Samaria. Those principles shaped his career and continue to drive his approach to charitable giving.
“You have to live according to your own code,” he shares.
Cletus has become somewhat of an expert in water systems. He has witnessed the consequences of unsafe water in communities close to home. The experience left him thinking about access to water around the world, especially in places where running water is a luxury few have
The Moriyok water yard is one of the water projects he has funded. Cletus wants his impact to be sustainable and far-reaching—and clean water is the foundation of so much. Cletus recognizes that access to water is inseparable from community health.
“You can’t perform surgery without access to clean water,” he says.
“I hope we can make sure that every CMMB aid station or clinic has clean water.”
When it comes to choosing how to give, his process is intentional. Well-chosen interventions, even small ones, can change lives. That’s why he does his research and encourages anyone considering charitable giving to do the same—no matter the amount.
“That was something my dad taught me,” he said. “He always gave to various charitable organizations, and he always researched each organization.”
When Cletus reflects on his gift and the impact it will have, the song “Desert Pete” by the Kingston Trio comes to mind.
“The idea I have with that song is that we can all be Desert Pete. We can all start the process to get water to people who desperately need it.”
Thank you, Cletus. We are inspired by your commitment to the “life of service,” and intentional generosity. Your support is changing lives.