Kiva

Sometimes you learn about an idea and you just know it’s a big idea. That’s what kiva.org is – a big idea.

You can change someone’s life with a $25 loan. You’ll even get paid back.

Kiva.org works with non-governmental organizations (non profits) in various places around the world. Local entrepreneurs apply for loans and it’s then posted on the website. You can pick who you want to support in what areas of the world and by what they’re doing.

I chose to lend to a woman in Togo for money for a beauty salon – her profile will be in the box above until her project is completely funded, then another one will appear. You can read more her or any of the others by going to kiva.org yourself.

You get paid back over the next few months, without interest. It’s an ingenious idea that allows the average person to invest $25 or more, and make a real difference.

I support Heifer International for the same reason – it’s doing something that will have long term effect.

Go take a look at Kiva and find something you’d like to loan to. It feels good.