Message from Rick Marshall:
I just made a loan to someone in Afghanistan using a the site that was set up by Otto’s sister, Lita. The group is called ‘Team OPS’ – the website is kiva.org
Why did I choose Afghanistan?
Because I want to provide hope and economic opportunity in a region where I believe lack of opportunity and hope for the future has led to an upsurge in Muslim fundamentalism. An upsurge in the subjugation not only of women – but all those with different beliefs or backgrounds.
But you could choose just about any poor nation on the planet.
Go to the team URL: http://www.kiva.org/team/team_ops
It states: “We loan because: Change in the world can only happen one step at a time. We all can make that difference.
About us: Otto Schutt touched so many people in his lifetime. It is now up to all of us to give back in his name. Give Thanks!” - Lita Tabish, Ott’s sister.
Team Since: Nov 24, 2008
Under the ‘Community’ Tab, you can also search for ‘Team OPS’ at :www.kiva.org
You can go to Kiva’s website and lend to someone across the globe who needs a loan for their business – like raising goats, selling vegetables at market or making bricks. Each loan has a picture of the entrepreneur, a description of their business and how they plan to use the loan so you know exactly how your money is being spent – and you get updates letting you know how the entrepreneur is going.
The best part is, when the entrepreneur pays back their loan you get your money back – and Kiva’s loans are managed by microfinance institutions on the ground who have a lot of experience doing this, so you can trust that your money is being handled responsibly. I have been receiving ALL of my payments on time over the last 6 months and just ‘re-loaned’ some of my original principal.
It’s finally easy to actually do something about poverty – using Kiva I know exactly who my money is loaned to and what they’re using it for. And most of all, I know that I’m helping them build a sustainable business that will provide income to feed, clothe, house and educate their family long after my loan is paid back.
Join me in honoring Ott’s legacy and continue changing the world – one loan at a time.
After all, it is Christmas – and if not now – when?
If not you; who?
It is time to Give Thanks!
Rick Marshall , Member of ‘Team OPS’
Please pass onto the countless number of ‘friends of Ott’ that I have missed.
OOOTTTOOO!!!
This quick note has been a long time coming and as long as it took for me to do it, I didn’t want another day to pass without a Thank You for making SnowCamp the most successful one we ever had. Because of you we are donating $2,500 to Girls 2000.