DANIEL SHAFER is a Los Angeles-based writer-producer with 20 years experience in the entertainment industry. He grew up in Amherst, Massachusetts, soaking in double features at the local revival house; notable films that not only amused, but widened his window to the world. His most formative experience, however, was a family trip deep up the Amazon at age 15, where he was stunned to see kids living on floating villages.

Curious about these obscure, unsung worlds, and wanting to make a difference, Daniel served as a PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER in rural Paraguay after attending Emory University. He was stationed on the edge of a huge swamp, without electricity, running water or telephones, where he spent two years battling snakes, insects and tarantulas as he mobilized his community to protect and improve their water sources.