July 9th, 2008 -- Posted in charity, economy, family, frugal living |
I just wanted to let you all know of a fantastic organisation I just Stumbled-Upon.
I mentioned Kiva.org a few weeks back - where you could loan money to third-world entrepreneurs. Today’s organisation is a charity also - but they focus on ‘changing the present’ - as in changing what we give people as presents.
From the website: “Our gifts are a great alternative to that bath set or novelty sweater you were planning to wrap up this holiday season — just choose “Create A Card” from the shopping cart to send a personalized greeting card announcing each gift you donate in a friend’s name”.
I have seen similar organisations before - this one is great because they actually represent a whole lot of different charities and organisations. If you have a gift you need to give someone - please have a look today. Mum - I think I know where you’re birthday present is coming from this year! 
(P.S. to mum - In fact - go check it out, and tell me which one you want me to donate to on your behalf Yes everyone - my mother does read this blog… she really should come out and say hello in the comments some time (hint.. hint…)
June 28th, 2008 -- Posted in Challenge - no bags, frugal living, reuse |
A few weeks ago, we had a cold snap. This was when I discovered that my current blankets weren’t up to the challenge of winter - especially with only the cat to keep me warm! So, I decided a new blanket and some flannel sheets was in order.
I happened to be up at the shops, so I had a look in K-Mart - thinking I might find some reasonably-priced stuff in there. However, a decent blanket was $60! And a set of two flannel sheets was $40! I walked out in a huff, refusing to pay such ridiculous prices for such basic items.
I was sure that I could find what I was after at an op-shop (a charity second-hand store for you non-Aussies). So, I took the main road to work, (which I hate, because even at 1pm, the traffic is horrendous!), as I knew there was a spot where three op-shops stood almost next to each other.
Alas, in the first I was thwarted in my mission… but when I got to the second shop - success! I bought a big, heavy blanket, plus a single queen flannel sheet (they only had one, but I figured one was better than none!)… and all for under $30. I told the woman that I didn’t need a bag, at which she replied dubiously “are you sure, dear?” as I stood there just peeking over the top of the jumble in my arms. I said I was, and I marched happily off to my car.
I am currently sitting here snug under said blanket and sheet, the cat tucked in at my side, and the satisfaction that I not only saved a lot of money - but that I have re-used something, and given my money to help those in need.
Better than spending $100 at K-Mart, that’s for sure.
June 25th, 2008 -- Posted in economy |
I found this organisation on another blog tonight - and given my post of a few days ago, it seemed an appropriate thing to share.
Kiva.org are a charity that brings together entrepreneurs in developing nations with private lenders (i.e. regular folks like you and me). The idea is that I could give $25 or $50, which would then go towards an entrepreneur starting up their own small business - a loan which they then repay over time!
I think this is a wonderful opportunity to give a little bit - and you might even get it back one day… though I doubt many people ‘invest’ with this in mind
One of the most interesting things is that you get to choose who you want to lend to - they have the personal and business details, plus the money raised so far, for every entrepreneur.
So, if you’re looking for a way to give a little back - this looks like a fabulous way to do it!
June 23rd, 2008 -- Posted in economy |
Yesterday I spoke about how the little changes we all make can come together in a ’snowball effect’. I was speaking mostly about our own sustainable practices at home - saving water, composting, recycling, reducing waste. Today, it occurred to me that there is another way that we can all make a difference to the world - by contributing to a sustainable economy.
What do I mean by that? Well, a massive issue in this world of ours is the unfair distribution of wealth. We in the Western countries own a disproportionate amount of the world’s wealth. I’m sure this is something you already know, but it’s easy to forget it in the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Now, I believe that capitalism is the best system out there - but an enlightened capitalism, where we make sure no-one in our society is without food and shelter. The system here in Australia is a reasonable example of this - we have generous welfare payments (perhaps too generous in some instances, like the baby bonus) - and a healthy economy with low unemployment.
The core of the capitalist system is the ability to work/run a business to earn money - which you forfeit some tax on for the administration of the country - but are then free to do with as you will. I have been a fortunate person - I grew up in a comfortable home with working/middle class parents (that’s always a tricky distinction for me - there are so many differing definitions out there), and have never wanted for any necessity.
I was able to get a good education, thanks to HECS (Higher Education Loans Scheme - where the government pays for your university education, and you pay them back with no interest out of your tax once you start working). I now have a decently-paid job and a good lifestyle… and as part of this I choose to give back to those people in the world who are not as fortunate as me.
There are many ways you can do this - for me, I liked the idea of sponsoring a child. So, many years ago now, while I was still studying and not earning a whole heck of a lot, I signed up with CCF (now Childfund.org.au) and started sponsoring a little girl in India called Sandhyarani.
This is only a drop in the ocean, certainly. And there are no doubt many people who scoff and say ‘what difference is that really making?’ Well, they may be right. The small re-distribution of wealth that I’m contributing to is very little in the grand scheme of things - especially when the developing world as a whole has such an enormous economic deficit when compared to OECD countries.
However, this little bit is all I feel I can do at this stage of my life. I don’t have control over government policies, nor am I in control of a huge multi-national corporation. I choose to make this contribution, and like to think it is making a difference to someone out there - someone who is, in some way, better off because of me.
So, I’m curious to know what you do to give back? Do you give to charity, volunteer, or sponsor a child of your own? I’m sure some of you do much more than me!
