Forming an Action Group
Upon learning about microcredit, your reaction is probably very similar to thousands of others. Like you, they ask, "What can I do?" Thanks to the creative and diligent efforts of people like Jack and Lisa Williams, we see that regular people can make an immense difference. The Elk Grove Action Group, started in 2001, has assisted hundreds of families in Central America by funding village banks. If microcredit teaches anything, it teaches that the unlikeliest people can do the most incredible things. As unlikely as you might consider yourself, you can make a real difference for hundreds of people.
The Center for Economic Self-Reliance has initiated the Action Group Program as a way for people from various backgrounds to get involved in microcredit in meaningful ways. The program works by first bringing groups of friends, co-workers, relatives, and neighbors together to learn more about poverty and improvidence. Educated donors are the most effective kind. Upon learning about different issues that affect the poor and efforts to help them, Action Groups may then choose development organizations as partners. Groups then sponsor specific activities or projects and learn about their progress and impact. For many group members, this is the first time they have taken what they can offer and made a meaningful, long-lasting impact. Group members also grow closer together through these experiences.
If you are interested in starting your own Action Group, click HERE to read more about how CESR can help get your group started. We will provide you with a kit that gives you all the resources you need to make the impact you have been looking for.
