Micro-loans, not charity
For an alternative to traditional charity giving, check out Kiva, where you can help entrepreneurs around the world grow their businesses and help lift themselves out of poverty.
I loaned $25 to a rice-seller in Tajikistan to help her buy a larger amount of stock, but there are farmers in Uganda, spare parts sellers in Peru, and shoe sellers in Kyrgyzstan. Some are riskier than others and some have better business skills, but it’s up to you who receives your loan.
December 12th, 2009 at 8:16 pm
Have recently found Kiva myself as it was sent as a gift. I think this is a great idea and like the fact that it’s something that just keeps on giving.