While there are many discouraging stories about poverty, disease and conflicts throughout the world, it's encouraging that many NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and concerned individuals are helping people achieve a better, more hopeful life.
One interesting entity, KIVA, has recently been profiled by the Today Show, Oprah Winfrey and Bill Clinton's book, Giving.
KIVA provides a way for people to loan money (in amounts as low as $25) to small business entrepreneurs trying to work their way out of poverty. Through the KIVA website, you can select from a changing roster of entrepreneurs and their businesses.
KIVA partners get the aggregated loans to the sponsored businesses, provide business updates to lenders and collect repayments. Loans are usually for 6-12 months.
After the loans are repaid, you can get your money back or make another loan.
This worthy endeavor is another example of the success of microfinancing in positive social change and economic development.
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