12 Months of Giving :: Kiva what?!

After February's challenge was a semi-bust for me, let's move on to March's 12 Months of Giving challenge!  Are you up for it?

What in the hell is a Kiva gift you're likely asking?  This is another goal that has been on my 101 in 1001 list since I began it.

First, you should just check out Kiva's website.  It's pretty thorough and easy to understand, but I'll try to summarize it for you as well.  There's basically fours steps in the Kiva process.

1. You first make the loan to someone for a great cause.  You get to go here and choose a borrower.  Cambodia holds a very special place in my heart, so I'll likely choose a borrower from there.  Go here to get long and short versions on how borrowers are chosen.
2. Check your email for progress updates on how your loan is being utilized.  You can also view updates through the Kiva website.
3. You may even get money back!  The borrower does repay the loan, so it's possible that you'll get repaid for your donation with a "Kiva Reward.*" *Which is in no way guaranteed so not a legit reason to lend and help out others in need. 
4. Use your Kiva Reward to pay it forward (or withdraw it for yourself).

Need something to help you understand better?  Watch this.

Guys, it only costs $25!  And you can keep on giving.  As someone who feels passionate about helping others in third world countries but can't quite travel to volunteer, this is an amazingly easy way to help others who really need it.  $25 to help fund someone's livelihood seems more than worth it to me. We literally do not even have to leave our home to take on this challenge.  With a few clicks of the mouse, we could help a family be one step closer to security, to being able to provide for their family.  $25 is nothing for many of us.  Give up Starbucks for a month.  Those Target sandals.  Wait a bit longer for that JCrew skirt you've been coveting.  Help me commit to changing someone, or an entire family's life.   Are you in for the challenge?  

I would absolutely love to hear and share your stories from any trips or volunteer experiences in third world countries.  If you're interested in guest posting (or re-posting) a story or experience you've had please email me!