Every now and then you come across an idea that really blows you away and kiva.org is definitely one of those.
In essence, Kiva is an Interest Free, Bank Loan Charity …
If you go to the website, you will find literally thousands of people/small businesses [all located in the developing World] all requesting ‘loans’ for varying amounts so that they can build their individual businesses and ultimately get back control of their life and end up having a better, brighter future for themselves, their families, their communities and their country.
This ‘loan’ could be for any matter of things – from decorating their small family restaurant, to buying a well for their village so they can water their crops – however the really clever bit is that as your money is put to good use, the recipient starts to pay you back [all detailed on the website including the timeline for repayment] so in essence, you are making a massive difference to someone’s life and it costs you nothing!
If you want to help someone but can’t afford to cover the whole ‘loan’, you can donate just a portion of the money needed – so regardless of your budget/situation, you can still get involved.
I love this idea … I absolutely adore it … so please check it out and at the very least publicise it to the World because not only has it got the power to change the World one person at a time, it can ensure we won’t be subjected to anymore Live8 concerts or Bono banging his self-serving drum, which should be a good enough reason for anyone! 🙂