Ending water and food insecurity, one community at a time
We are a nonprofit organization bringing clean and safe drinking water to people in developing countries.
The Heart of Advance Lives
Every day, people around the world face small but significant challenges that affect their daily lives. As a clean water charity based in Canada, we focus on the essential needs that are often overlooked while larger organizations address broader global issues. Our mission is to provide the most basic necessities, food and clean water, to vulnerable families in need. By partnering with local communities and dedicated individuals, we ensure that our efforts bring meaningful, lasting change.
We believe that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a powerful impact. One meal, one clean drink of water, and one act of compassion at a time—we work to restore hope, strengthen communities, and help people move forward without the burden of hunger or thirst.
Core Company Values
Universal Access: As a clean water charity in Canada, we believe that every person, in every place, deserves access to safe drinking water. This belief drives everything we do, from our outreach initiatives to the communities we partner with worldwide.
Compassion in Action: We act with empathy and purpose, ensuring that every effort we make has a real and lasting impact on people’s lives.
Sustainability & Stewardship: We’re committed to creating long-term solutions for clean water and nutrition, using sustainable practices that protect both people and the planet.
Community Empowerment: We partner exclusively with local businesses to ensure every project strengthens the local economy. All materials and supplies are purchased locally.
Meet the Team
Meet the individuals behind the mission of Advance Lives International, a Canadian-based clean water charity. Our team brings dedication, expertise, and heart to every project, working together to provide safe, reliable water to communities in need.
Nicola Topsom
Co-Founder & Director
Nicola has a love for the lost and forgotten ones and is undaunted by challenges. She has learned to discuss ideas with her teams and, together, find solutions where it looked like none were possible. In March 2024, after 10 years as a volunteer, Nicola has made Advance her full-time work, raising her own support. Nicola and her husband, Jason, live in Burlington, Ontario, with their two daughters.
Jazmin LaFramboise
Co-Founder & Board Member
Jazmin’s first visit to Haiti in 2006 proved to be one of life’s most special moments —a turning point. Since then, Jazmin has championed Job Creation, making it one of the pillars of Advance. Jazmin is key to our annual fundraising events, and her ability to connect with donors has been instrumental in our success since 2014. She owns and operates a successful real estate business in Spruce Grove, Alberta, where she lives with her husband, Jesse, and their daughter.
Jessica Likness Anderson
Treasurer & Board Member
Jessica’s expertise in accounting (Bachelor’s Degree) is a gift to Advance. She is meticulous with your donations and ensures that all the paperwork is perfect. Jessica works closely with the National Teams in Haiti and India for detailed financial reports. Jess is of proud Cree and Metis heritage, raising two young children with her husband, John, on traditional Treaty 6 Lands.
Your support means the world to us and the communities we advocate for.
To contribute to our cause, you can donate via