Thursday, July 23, 2009

Kiva: how 25$ can help change the world


Sorry I haven't updated in a while- but it has been pretty hectic around Tucson with trying to make the move back up to Seattle after 4 years down here. good riddance. But I want to get back to the idea of people helping people; because in the end a little compassion and kindness goes a long way. That's the idea behind Kiva- a company that brings together generosity, prosperity, dedication and hard work under the tag line "loans that change lives".

Several years ago, I read a book called "Banker for the Poor" and was very excited by the ideas presented within it. So naturally, when I saw this website it reminded me of the book, and the purpose it brings.

The idea is quite simple really, people in impoverished nations apply to get micro-financed through small loans for starting small individual businesses, and then pay off these interest free loans over a period of time. On the other side, the loaners review the stories/applications on a case-by-case basis and decide to whom, and how much to donate- once the amount required has been met, the applicant receives his loan. Once the loan is repaid, the loaner can then use the money to fund another entrepreneur. Everybody wins.

I think that the idea of people helping people is one that will forever ring true in every society. We cannot stand by and watch as people suffer- we must act to benefit not only ourselves, and those around us, but to reach out and support whenever possible. The idea of micro-loaning is fantastic and I just wish that it was more well known, because really who can't spare the 25$ we'd spend on 4 iced macchiato Frappes at Starbucks to help a woman buy some wood and start making/selling baskets? Do something good- your world (and your stomach) will thank you.

http://www.kiva.org/app.php?page=businesses to see the applicants and make a donation

Think about it,

DVN