Advent Calendar Day 19: Kiva

Kiva

Suzanne and others from our Forum use Kiva regularly to do good and to change the world. It is a simple way to give a gift that gives life. And, as the gift is used and you are repaid, you can give it again. ~dan rondeau

Quote . . .We are a non-profit organization with a mission to connect people through lending to alleviate poverty. Leveraging the internet and a worldwide network of microfinance institutions, Kiva lets individuals lend as little as $25 to help create opportunity around the world. (Kiva website)

Why we do what we do

We envision a world where all people – even in the most remote areas of the globe – hold the power to create opportunity for themselves and others.

We believe providing safe, affordable access to capital to those in need helps people create better lives for themselves and their families.

How we do it

Making a loan on Kiva is so simple that you may not realize how much work goes on behind the scenes.

Kiva works with microfinance institutions on five continents to provide loans to people without access to traditional banking systems. One hundred percent of your loan is sent to these microfinance institutions, which we call Field Partners, who administer the loans in the field.

Kiva relies on a world wide network of over 450 volunteers who work with our Field Partners, edit and translate borrower stories, and ensure the smooth operation of countless other Kiva programs.

Source: About Kiva

Learn more: How it works

Current opportunities to lend

Advent Calendar in one place
About the Online Advent Calendar


For further reflection

The people behind Kiva include volunteers, Kiva Fellows, Field Partners, our board, and a team of employees (shown above) and contractors. The Kiva headquarters are located in San Francisco, California

A quick look at the work being done:

A short video tour about how it works

How Kiva Works from Kiva on Vimeo.

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Photo and statistics: from the website kiva.org


Author: Daniel Rondeau

I am a husband and father and an Episcopal Priest (now retired) in the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego.

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