Get Involved

UnPoverty is possible. More than 1 billion people live on $1 per day. We can end this level of extreme poverty during our lifetime. Doing so requires those of us with financial resources to offer these people a hand up. With the right inputs, the poor themselves will work their way up the poverty ladder.

At its core extreme poverty is the lack of income. The solution is microfinance. But the poor also have other needs. Here are eight specific organizations with longstanding, extremely successful programs. Each one focuses on a different dimension. If you are not already contributing to a charity that empowers poor people in the developing world, you are encouraged to select one of these “best buys.” Click on their logo and make a gift on their websites.

Microfinance Opportunity International Loans Savings Insurance	Child Development Compassion International Education Training Sponsorships	Health MAP International Medicine Training Mobile clinics	Housing Habitat for Humanity Shelter Build Repair

Relief World Relief Disasters Refugees Immigration	Farming Heifer Livestock Agriculture Environment	Justice International Justice Mission Slavery Human Trafficking Violence	Water Living Water Drill wells Drinking Sanitation

Pay attention. Learn more about poor people in your community and around the world. If you are a part of a church or other religious group, find out what it does to help the poor.
Expand your boundaries. Despite our shrinking planet, most of the news we get is about ourselves. Seek out media that report on conditions around the world. One option is a BBC's World Service.
Travel. Instead of Paris, visit Peru or Panama. Try to get off the tourist-beaten path and visit the people where they live and work. There are respectful ways this can be done.
Become an informal advocate. Use what you learn to speak up for the poor within your circle of influence. If someone makes a disparaging comment about the poor, be the one who defends their honor and dignity. Tell them about Esther.
Help a new arrival. In almost every US city, agencies rely on volunteers to help refugees and immigrants resettle. Not only can you help them avoid poverty, but it’s a great way to learn about another country without the expense of going there. Not sure where to start? See if there’s a World Relief office near you.
Write a letter. Ask your Representatives and Senators what they’re doing to reduce poverty around the world. When they vote for laws that help the poor, write again to thank them.
Adopt a developing nation. This is a great way for parents or grandparents to help kids become global citizens. Help them recognize the country’s flag and learn about their culture. Prepare a traditional meal. Discuss what citizens do for a living. Consider sponsoring a child from your adopted country.
Join an international trip. The next time your church sponsors a trip to El Salvador to build a health clinic, sign up. You’ll likely gain far more than you give, but that’s okay. See how joyful and resourceful those in poverty can be despite their circumstances. Then come home and be their voice.
Partner with professionals. The eight organizations featured in UnPoverty have a proven track record. Each has a unique focus, meeting a certain need to end poverty. Whether your interest is clean water or microfinance, there’s a place for you to donate – effectively.
Plan for your second half. As you approach your fifties, you may be looking for a job with more lasting significance. You may be financially independent. This is the time to align your skills and finances with a passion for the poor. Sound interesting? Visit Half Time.