Although I donate to various charities, I'll be honest: I am not fond of simply throwing money at a problem as a workable solution. There are wonderful charities out there and untold need, as much is true; but the impetus of anything that involves only charitable distribution of funds invariably means that it creates a sort of endless black hole where, though people are immediately assisted, nothing gets permanently solved.

Corporations perpetuate need. I prefer the fulfillment of it.

Having a specific goal in mind rather than instituting an emotional knee-jerk reaction that causes the guilt-filled to cough up dollars is a grand start. Rather than arbitrary socialism and endless charity - how do we change the paradigm? What are the solutions?

Being a 'teach a man to fish rather than stuff his face' sort of girl, if you get my meaning.

So when I came across a blurb about Kiva.org through one of the Bellaonline emails that I get, I was intrigued. Kiva is a non-profit organization that has emerged as a new sort of philanthropic enterprise: Web-based microfinancing to entreprenuers in the developing world. Absolutely brilliant! You have to wonder why someone hasn't thought of this before.

Where most charities fund programs to provide aid to those in need, Kiva applies actual lending principles by loaning money to its recipients, which then pay it back over an agreed upon period of time. It assumes the position that those in need are not helpless but simply in less than fortunate conditions, and further assumes a role of trust and faith in that person by ensuring that the money is a true load rather than simply charity.

How does it work, you ask?

You register at Kiva, and are then able to choose from a variety of businesses seeking financial backing from countries all over the world. Each business features information about their company - in most cases widowed women and/or families - detailing the services they provide, why they need the loan and terms of repayment.

One random selection features a woman named Oksana from Zaporozhye, Ukraine who is married with two sons. Her profile reads

"(Oksana) runs a small tool grinding and key manufacturing workshop. She chose to enter this type of business because there were few other entrepreneurs offering the same services. Oksana has been in business now for 10 years. Her sons are actively involved helping her in this family business. Currently, she has about $2,000 of working capital. Her monthly net profit amounts to $400-500.

Oksana is very enterprising and full of creative ideas. Her reasonable pricing policy and client-friendly service have always been priorities in her work and have helped to ensure the success of her business. Oksana has a perfect record with “Nadiya Ukraine” having promptly repaid each loan she has received.

Oksana is requesting a loan for $600 to purchase billets for manufacturing keys and to purchase some dies, moulds and necessary spares for her tool and cutting grinders. Oksana has also recently launched a new business venture. She built a small greenhouse in her yard and has started growing onions, cucumbers and tomatoes that she will be able to sell. Oksana is planning to invest generated profits from her established business into her greenhouse venture. She believes that having different businesses will help her minimize sales risk and provide stable financial support for her family. "

Kiva reports a 100% repayment rate on all businesses with completed loan terms and features a 'paid back' section. And the wonderful feeling that what you are giving truly does make a difference.