Thanks for reading my blog!
So far I am really enjoying it and welcome your comments (please leave me a comment to let me know what you think!)
Since this is sort of like my own webpage, I added a new sidebar which shows some of the missions, organizations and nonprofits that Joe and I support. Truthfully, the more I learn about and become involved with these nonprofits, the more I love them.
I share about this not because I'm trying to recruit anyone, but just because it has been a true joy to give to and be a part of what these organizations are doing. And I really believe that people often want an opportunity to be a part of something meaningful that gives to others.
I volunteered at the Voice of the Martyrs office several times during Christmas break (a Christian organization with headquarters in Bartlesville, Oklahoma!), and it was a wonderful opportunity to learn how they are serving the persecuted church worldwide. It also reminded me how thankful I am to have freedom of religion and the ability to worship Jesus without fear of what might happen to me or my family.
Also, a student that I knew from when I was a campus minister at Connecticut College had a link on his Facebook site about Kiva.org. Kiva is a really awesome tool that allows you to loan money to a business owner in the developing world. You can review profiles and requests and contribute as little as $25, which gets pooled with other lenders to provide a loan for a specific business purpose. When the loan is repaid, you can then choose to loan again or withdraw the funds. Joe really enjoys Kiva because it is personal- you can see the profile of who you are loaning to and what they need the money for. Plus, people who participate can use the same contribution to lend to possibly 5, 10, or even more different business owners over time. I love that!
I know MANY people are skeptical about nonprofits, and I think that healthy skepticism is a good thing. However, I think unfortunately it often prevents people from giving at all- and giving not only provides something needed to the receiver, but a blessing to the giver as well. I check to make sure that the organization is being audited by someone recognizable- like the ECFA for Christian organizations.
