I want to give . . .

[KP]

For Christmas this year, I wanted to give charitable donations in honor of people in my family. I have a brother who has personal interest in Bangladesh, and was wondering if there's some way I could give to an organization in his name. . . does anybody have any ideas or suggestions?

KP

[galib]

Grameen Bank in Bangladesh offers low interest loans to the otherwise not credit worthy poor. The average loan amount is US$150 which brings a family of five out of acute poverty within a year. The GB has a 98% recovery rate which is exteremely high, if not the highest, by any standard. They're encouraging overseas Bangladeshis to open interest free current (checking) account for US$150 and leave it in the account for at least a year to benefit one such poor family to elevate themselves out of poverty.

The money is not a donation and one can withdraw it any time one wishes, even within that first year. However, it's best if the money is kept for at least a year to work for the poor.

The money, however, can only be withdrawn in Bangladeshi takas. So, you can open an account and withdraw the money some day when you visit Bangladesh. Or, I'm sure they'll also accept donation if you insist. You can find more info at the following web site, including contact information for the Grameen Bank.

http://www.grambangla.com/js/frame_Gram.htm

Good luck!

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Galib