Micro-Philanthropy: Make a Big Impact with Small Change

Have you ever wanted to help someone or some cause and felt powerless to help? When you write a small check to a big organization do you wonder where the money goes? Several organizations are now using the web to reach out and ask for small donations from people around the globe. For every contribution received, the donor receives in return confirmation of how the money was spent. Donors come away with a deep sense of satisfaction that the money was put to good use and the receivers get the opportunity to prove how well the money was spent, and perhaps ask a little more.

Websites available to make targeted donations include:

Givemeaning.com lists specific projects and causes that need support around the globe. Receipts for tax-deductible contributions are available on a case by case basis. There are no administrative or credit card processing fees to reduce the contribution. You can also start your own fundraising initiative to get your own cause out there.

At Kiva.org you can make an interest-free loan to entrepreneurs in poor countries. When the loan is repaid you can lend it out again, putting the same $25 or $50 to use over and over again. Kiva works with microfinance institutions that are local and accessible to the poor entrepreneurs, mostly women.

If helping out schools is close to your heart check out DonorsChoose.org. This site enables teachers to ask for funds for specific purposes such as DVDs or chairs for the students. You can locate classrooms in need by state or topic. You can even purchase gift cards for friends and family to donate to a charity that is meaningful to them.

These sites all offer a big bang for your contribution buck. You get to learn about the person or class in need, make an affordable contribution and know you have made a significant difference in that person's life. Word of caution: watch out for sites that charge high credit card and administrative fees for processing your contribution.