Microloans with Kiva.org

Farogat Holmuradova sells women's clothing in a bazaar in Tajikistan. Hoping to improve sales by adding new styles to her selection, she's turned to Kiva.org for a small loan.

In southern Azerbaijan, Aliyev Ilham and his family have lived for years off a small herd of sheep. Now, he's looking to expand his business with a temporary infusion of cash.

Because the working poor in the developing world often lack a credit record or collateral for a loan, they can't easily secure assistance from their corner banks. But for years, they've been able to turn to Kiva, a successful microloan site that connects people willing to donate small sums with the owners of individual businesses around the world who need the help.

Through journals and email updates, the site shows exactly how your money is used. When the loan is repaid, you get your dough back and can start all over again with a new business. We all remember the lessons of Scrooge — put your banker suit on and help someone build their future.