Browsing through the latest issue of Webuser magazine, I stumbled across Kiva - a "micro lending" service that is simplicity in action.
People around the world can register with Kiva, and from there, commit a small amount of money ($25, around £15) into their account. A user can then look through a whole range of small organisations and individuals around the world who are looking for a small loan to help them to set up / develop their business. You can then allocate your funds to help with a particular cause, and when that cause has reached it's target amount you become an investor in it. These loans are typically short term, and once repaid back to you, your money is there to invest in another worthy cause.
Kiva takes no money from the $25 investment you make (although they do ask if you wish to make an additional donation on top of that) when you commit to a cause, which I like. All the investment is going to help someone who really needs it, and is committed to making regular repayments to refund their investors.
With regular emails keep you up to date about how your investment is going it's so simple, and a brilliant way for the average Joe to help people around the world.
They also offer giftcards - what a great present to get for someone as Christmas approaches. Give them the gift of helping others. What a lovely gesture.
