We enable people without access to traditional banks (including many women) to expand their businesses, educate their children, save for the future and raise themselves out of poverty. Through Kiva, a non-profit organisation working with microfinance institutions, you choose a borrower to support with a loan of just $25. Similar loans by other lenders are combined until the required total is reached. As your money is repaid you can withdraw it or lend it to someone else. Money that is loaned over and over again does more good than a one-time donation. Join 'Genealogists for Families' - together we are making a difference!

About

'Genealogists for Families' is the name of our Kiva team. Kiva, a non-profit organisation, allows you to lend a small sum ($25) to a specific person. You choose the person, and you know how he/she will use the money and when it will be repaid. For you, $25 may just be the cost of a few takeaway lunches or coffees. For the borrower, it may be equivalent to many weeks income.

As your loans are repaid (often in monthly instalments) you can withdraw the money or lend it to someone else. This is a simple and sustainable way to empower someone to support their family, educate their children and lift themselves out of poverty.

How the project started:

Project developer / coordinator Judy Webster says, "My father set aside money (we called it his 'Do Good money') and periodically lent it to a hard-working person in need of help. When Dad passed away, I wanted to continue that tradition in his memory. I am delighted that hundreds of family historians have followed my example, each in their own way and for their own reasons."

Find out how to join 'Genealogists for Families' - a team that is really making a difference!