Blog Action Day: Focus on Poverty
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Today is Blog Action Day 2008. “What’s that?” you ask. Over 10,000 bloggers around the world are having a global conversation to raise awareness about poverty. Yes, I realize that many of you are overwhelmed just trying to keep a handle on your business. It can be hard to think about helping others when our own businesses sometime feel like a bucking bronco. Well, here’s an idea that’s simple to implement and will not take much time or effort.
One of the ways I — and you — can make a difference in the lives of millions of people is by getting involved with Kiva.org. Kiva is one of the world’s first person-to-person micro-lending websites, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world. These entrepreneurs use their loans to start businesses that lift them and their communities out of poverty. Making a loan is not the same as giving money. These entrepreneurs borrow small sums, maybe a few hundred dollars, and improve their business. By investing in someone’s business, you help not only the business owner, but also their family and their community. A $25 loan can make an enormous difference in the life of an entrepreneur in Peru or Nigeria or Togo. Take a look at my lending profile to see the businesses I’m currently lending to. Join me today and make a loan that will change someone’s life. All it takes is $25 to make a HUGE difference.
If you’d like something different, I challenge you to think about how you can use your skills to help empower someone to rise above poverty. Check your local area for organizations that give budding entrepreneurs a jump start. You can check with your church or synagogue to see if they know of any organizations that might put your talents to work. Why not offer classes for low cost or no cost at your local library? Or partner with your city or other organizations to offer classes and resources.
I would love to hear from you. What are some simple ways that you help alleviate poverty in your community or in the world? Feel free to post them in the comments section.
