Betterplace This site, like Kiva.org is designed to connect donators with people around the world seeking microfinance (small loans). The site is operated by Betterplace Foundation and due to their partnerships 100% of user donations go to borrowers. The site is based in Germany and at least half of the participant narrative is in German. The site differs from Kiva in that it offers ways to donate to many traditional charities in developing countries. See also: Kiva.org
Kiva The mission of Kiva is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty around the world. Kiva claims to be the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world. The people you see on Kiva's site are real individuals in need of funding. When donors choose someone to lend to, and then make a loan or $25 or more, they are helping a real person. Throughout the course of the loan (usually 6-12 months), you can receive email journal updates and track repayments. Then, when you get your loan money back, you can relend to someone else in need. Kiva partners with existing expert microfinance institutions. See also: Betterplace.org
ACORN ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) is the nation’s largest grassroots community organization of low- and moderate-income people (acorn.org). This organization stands up for the poor and the powerless, and its goals include better wages and job opportunities for people, affordable housing, improving schools and obtaining environmental justice. They attempt to reach these goals by filing lawsuits, lobbying, organizing petitions, and by nonviolent means such as sit-ins and marches (The Better World Handbook).
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States. They have been the leader in one-to-one youth service for more than a century, developing positive relationships that have lasting impacts on the lives of young people (The Better World Handbook). This organization’s mission is to help children, ages six through eighteen, make good decisions, and helps them realize their potential through one-to-one relationships. National research has proven that these relationships between children and their Big Brothers and Big Sisters have a direct and positive impact on youth’s lives. For example, youth are less likely to skip school and to use illegal drugs, and are more likely to make more friends.