Get Your Money Back

I am a big believer in donation. We can donate almost everything: clothes, money, even life. But sometimes making a monetary donation just isn't practical. Thankfully there are many ways to do good for others and get your money back. Check out these lending opportunities:

-->Kiva.org. This nonprofit organization allows the public to finance microloans throughout the world. Lenders can choose the entrepreneurs they want to support. With their very low rates of default, lenders almost always get their money back though they don't earn a return on their investment.

-->MicroPlace.com. This for-profit company just launched last month. They allow the public to buy securities that fund microfinance organizations throughout the world. "Lenders" earn a return on their investment, but are not able to choose who they fund.

Kiva and Microplace may appear similar, but they have different business models. There's no reason you can lend through both, especially since you'll likely get your money back. For broader lending opportunities, consider these options:

-->Prosper.com. Loan to people in the US and elsewhere. If you practice due diligence you may well earn a nice return.

-->LendingClub.com. Loan to people in the US and elsewhere. If you practice due diligence you may well earn a nice return.

-->Virginmoneyus.com. Loan to family members and friends. Having a third party involved could help reduce or prevent disputes and broken relationships.

And if you need a loan to start a small business, stop using payday lenders, get out of debt, pay medical bills, etc. consider registering with one of these companies as a borrower. Lenders, if you choose carefully, you'll be able to help someone in need and earn a return on your investment. Nextbillion.net is devoted to just these kinds of opportunities. Now that's socially-responsible investing.

"Self-pity in its early stages is as snug as a feather mattress. Only when it hardens does it become uncomfortable." -- Maya Angelou