Get to know us

By the Water Foundation is a nonprofit organization based globally near different bodies of water, dedicated to empowering underserved children through access to education and technology. We believe that learning should be within everyone’s reach, and we create safe, welcoming spaces where children can grow, explore, and build a brighter future.

Our history

By the Water Foundation began with a simple but powerful idea: to provide underserved children in Ecuador and Illinois with access to quality tutoring and technology. We have grown to serve multiple communities with onsite learning hubs and online classes

Our vision

We envision a world where every child, regardless of their background, is empowered with the tools and knowledge to improve their communities and environments. Inspired by the theme of water—an essential source of life and resilience—we aim to nurture learners who are not only confident and capable but also conscious of their role in protecting and sustaining the world around them.

Our team

Our team is made up of passionate volunteers, educators, and community leaders from around the globe. Together, we bring diverse skills and experiences to create a supportive environment where children can thrive. Our commitment is to empower students and inspire positive change in the communities we serve.

Our Sponsors

Special thanks to our sponsors that make it possible for us to accommodate a wide range of students while also making our visions come to life.

Enter your email to ping us for our scholarship brochure

MIMBUS VR SCHOOL

FRAMEVR.IO

we use framevr to host our free weekly online classes and for various reasons: -Accommodates vr/mobile/laptop at the same time -no additional applications needed besides browser -generative ai features allows for ai prompting classes

we use MIMBUS to Provide our older students with simulated real-life experience to prepare them for the coming workforce expectations.

They also provide us with scholarship incentives

pile of smartphones
pile of smartphones

Don't have a VR headset?

No problem. Please follow the instructions below...

You are able to log in using your phone, tablet, or any device using the following link:

Interested in using one of our devices for an elevated experience?

a black mannequin with a white hat on top of it
a black mannequin with a white hat on top of it

Visit our list of sponsored onsite hubs to see if we are available near you to get your child the resources they need to experience the full VR school.

Message from the founder...

Our strength lies in our individuality. We hope that by empowering those who have the desire but lack the resources, we can bring out our individual talents. It is in those talents that we give meaning to our lives AND give back to earth...

Joshua Salamea

Founder / CEO

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called "By the Water"?

We are called By the Water foundation as it relates to our ultimate goal with education: empowering the youth to take environmental action. Because on earth, we all live by the water.

Are there any additional scholarship benefits?

Yes! We offer subsidized VR education for students that show commitment, excellence, but, MOST importantly, a clear commitment to clean water. Meaning we will cover the costs of your ongoing education AND continued life consulting.

How much does it cost?

We are a completely free online tutoring center, we host tech drives and quarterly fundraisers where you take part in our efforts to make waves of change.

How do I get involved as a Parent?

We offer three basic channels for parents to get involved including becoming a remote-volunteer tutor, donating items, or event brand sponsorships. Click here for more details

How do I enroll my child?

Enrollment is as simple as clicking the link whilst one of our classes are in session; you can find our weekly schedule HERE....We don't require any apps to be installed

Where can I learn more about you?

Besides our socials: Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok. We send out our biweekly newsletter for event announcements, changes to the calendar, or special group projects

How do you manage to keep costs so low?

Thanks to a combination of our sponsors, volunteers, and strategic development. We have created a virtual school that is made at the lowest cost possible while also taking full advantage of today's technology. We also rely on governmental assistance on a global scale.

What subjects are available?

Check HERE for full calendar. General Students (age 8-18) have access to basic subjects like math, science, and language. Advanced Students (ages 14-24) will have access to VR career path learning including culinary school, welding, etc.

Where is the technology (laptops, phones, etc.) donated to?

Our donations are stored onsite in our designated locations. You can find a list of our locations HERE and the available hours of each to get your child assisted with the tools they need to get involved TODAY

Is any of my child's data used or sold?

No child's data is profit, we deeply value the privacy and protection of our students. We ask for simply a name upon class entry, with no inappropriate nicknames. We ask for consent from the parents of our VR scholarship recipients IF they would be willing to partake in deeper VR curriculum development.

Learn how you can get involved...