In the past year, a couple of people have approached me, asking about how I find companies to volunteer with or donate money to. It’s often not the easiest process, and with all things, word of mouth is the best way to find out about those not-for-profits that are really changing the world bit by bit.
Kiva is no exception. Both in that this non-profit organization is changing the world, and I heard about it from a friend.
Here’s Kiva’s quick video if you want to skip reading the rest of my text!
Kiva has a diligent monitoring system in place to help ensure that funds are being used as they were meant to be. Their field partners are on-the-ground, managing loan requests and dispersing the loans to borrowers.
If you want to lend $25 to someone looking to make a better life for themselves and their families, you the lender have the opportunity to choose who your money is lent to. The special focus of each borrowing group can be viewed through Kiva’s Social Performance stamp system. The categories included are the following: Anti-Poverty Focus, Vulnerable Group Focus, Family and Community Empowerment, Entrepreneurial Support, and more.
Kiva Zip
Kiva Zip promises that it “makes 0% interest loans for 100% social good.” By choosing a entrepreneur or small business to lend to, you become a part of their community, including updates on how their business is progressing. This is a great way to impact the world community or even your local community.
But you’re wondering, is Kiva for me?
Kiva is for you! Kiva is for you if you want to put your money towards helping people, but you want to invest in their life betterment by giving these people the tools to improve their own lives, and not just a handout. Yes, there are risks involved with lending your money. You can even volunteer hands-on with Kiva in different capacities, whether you want to intern, be a Kiva Fellow, or review and translate loan profiles.
Kiva is not for you. If you’re looking for a return on your money other than good feelings, then you probably should invest your money elsewhere.
Still not sure if Kiva is a non-profit organization you want to be a part of, that’s fine, but you should definitely check out their blog to see the neat things that they are doing!
What About You?
What sets volunteer experiences apart for you? Have you ever used Kiva to help others?
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