Giving to Charities Over the Years

Our family has given to charities over the years that send food and water around to world to people in need. This is the type of work that seemed beneficial and the right thing to do. However, I always wondered if there was a better way to help. I cannot help but be reminded of a story my Mother told me when I was small. She told of the story that my grandparents came over from Italy with very little money and could have applied for assistance. They refused because they did not want a hand out; they had too much pride for that way of life. They worked very hard so the next generation could have a better life. That is where Kiva.com comes into the picture. People can supply funds not as a handout which keeps people in the current state of poverty. This act is a hand up and not just a hand out. With this approach people are given the dignity they deserve. Kiva not only sustains life but it enhances life as well.

An aspect that set Kiva apart from the typical charity is the fact that the money entering into the program is a loan; the money is returned to help other people as well. The help is recycled over and over again. It is understood that not all business will succeed and repay the loan, however, business have a chance and can have an opportunity to make a difference to the people in the business.