AOK Today, Day1: KIVA

AOK Today: Becoming a lender with KIVA

"Make a loan, change a life"

How It Works: Kiva allows you to loan money through their website to third world people without access to traditional banking systems so they can pursue their own business ventures (think growing crops, fishing, sewing). This allows them to be financially independent in a sustainable way, and depend on their own efforts. "In a world where dreams are universal, but opportunity is not," these tiny investments change the lives of the families who receive them, and, on average, 96.4% of the loans are wholly paid back! You can read about each of the potential borrowers and their projects before choosing exactly who you want to loan to. My first loan was to a Bolivian women's circle wanting to buy potatoes wholesale to sell at the local markets - I love potatoes, and I love Bolivia so it was a natural fit! Check this video and this page for a more information.

Cost: It's a loan, not a donation. 100% of every dollar you lend on Kiva goes directly towards funding loans; Kiva does not take a cut or charge interest to their Field Partners, who administer the loans. Kiva is headquartered in San Francisco, so loans are based on USD, with a minimum loan of $25. I have been paid pack every. single. time. When you are paid back, you can choose to withdraw your money, or lend again.

Why I love it: People tell me that my eyes light up every time I talk about KIVA. I cannot describe the amount of joy, I have experienced over the past 7 years lending with them. KIVA is so personal. I love the autonomy, sustainability, the mammoth impact for such a small act, and the comprehensive due diligence the organisation implement. Obsessed!

Happy Giving |XOX|