Oh, Gaia. The world works in such strange ways!
This spring, I gave my sister $20 to invest through a microfinance organization. She loaned the money to a woman in Togo, who used it to expand her then-small sewing business.
It was one of the most rewarding—and practical—presents I can remember: we helped empower a family in Africa, and, a few months later, my sister and I got our $20 back to do with as we wished. (I don't think I need to point out that the investment wouldn't have done nearly as well on Wall Street.)
At the time, I hadn't been thinking of the holidays, nor did I imagine playing a larger role in spreading the word about this sort of work. And then, last week, MicroPlace approached us as one of Gaia's partners.
MicroPlace's holiday gifting program lets you make an investment in honor of anyone you'd like. (You can start with as little as $20.) The money goes to a member of the working poor to expand his or her business, and at the end of the term, gets returned (with interest!) to be reinvested or withdrawn. (And, if you order by December 10th, MicroPlace can also send your friend a card and a free, hand-crafted
Chilean piggy bank that will arrive in time for the holidays.)
To my mind it's one of the more unique gifts available, and perfect for those with a holiday budget—because not only do you get to help a family on the other side of the globe, your money gets 'recycled' when the investment is paid back.
You can sign up here quite easily, and when (or whether or not) you do, please please please try writing a bit about it, or just
telling others. The ripple effect of this form of gift, I think, has the power to change the face of charity
and investing, but it'll only happen through participation and sharing these stories. I can't wait to hear yours. :)
To interconnection, our beautiful world, and a new understanding of money and energy and gifts,
