When was the last time you did something good for someone else?

Sometimes, we only talk about helping other people, but as we all know talk will get us nowhere until we put those ideas into practice. In our own little way to help, HB and I (AnAsianTraveler) decided to join Kiva organization as Lender last November 2010. We thought this would be a good start to help people who are less fortunate but are willing to do what it takes to make the change happen in their life.

Through Kiva, lenders can make a loan to a low-income entrepreneur across the globe for as little as US$25 or as much as the entire amount of the loan. Twenty Five dollars isn't much but it is a start for them to become economically independent. Not only this will help them alleviate poverty, but it will also create further ripple effect through the whole community economy.

Kiva is a non-profit, so Lenders DO NOT receive any interest. Repayment of the loan takes about in a few months or a year. However, this also involves risks and it does not guarantee lenders that their loans will be repaid. Nevertheless, what is important is we give them a chance to improve their livelihoods. (Note: To date, we are receiving payments from them.)

There are many other ways we can help but contributing something more long term is more effective and successful than just giving them one time meal.