Saving the world might seem like a daunting task, but if you’ve ever watched the news and thought “What can I really do?” to what seems like an endless list of wars, famines and global concerns, then read on. See what a difference you can make with the help of some leading international organizations:
Project Migration: This really cool fashion line was founded by Hilary Rowland. For each Project Migration shirt or bag sold, one or more struggling single mothers in East Africa will receive FIVE YEARS of clean water along with life-saving medical supplies for her and her children. Imagine that! The great shirt designs have the number of years donated printed across the butt. In addition, they host “Migration Vacations” which allow supporters to have a special opportunity to personally hand-deliver medical supplies, and they bring volunteer doctors who will help single mothers who are pregnant, giving birth or sick. No wonder they’ve got huge public supporters from celebs like Sting, Adrian Grenier and Paris Hilton. [www.projectmigration.org]
Darfur Wall: The Darfur Wall was developed by Dan, Jonah, and Matt Burke, a father and his two sons based in Seattle, Washington. The virtual wall represents the 400,000 people who have lost their lives in Sudan’s genocide since 2003. Donate one dollar or more to light up a dark gray square on the wall, and the proceeds will be equally distributed among four non-profit organizations: Doctors without Borders, Save the Children, Save Darfur, and the Sudan Aid Fund/ Eric Reeves. The wall has raised $27,225 and lit up 27,158 squares to date. Will you be the one to light the next square? [www.darfurwall.org]
Kiva: This unique organization encourages business ventures from within developing countries through the process of microfinance, wherein a donor supports a local business—i.e not foreign-owned—in the developing world. By choosing a specific business to support, you can interact with the business owner, via microfinance firms, throughout the 6-12 month lending period. Donations begin at $25 a month. [www.kiva.org]
Trees for the Future: This organization, which was established in the early 1970s, works closely with the agrarian communities of developing countries in Asia, Africa and Central America. By planting trees in impoverished villages, and educating the local population in agriculture and forestry, Trees for the Future seeks to improve the environment and the living conditions of developing nations. By donating $100, you can help plant a forest and cultivate a future. [www.treesftf.org]
Donate, get involved, do something, not only to heal that “what can I do” feeling but to make a difference, and yes, even save the world, one person at a time.
