Years ago I learned the wisdom of making regular giving a part of one's life. As I thought about taking this Village public, I wanted to make giving a special part of it.

This Year's Charities
There are two charities that Willowrose Christmas Village is supporting for 2010.

Because we live in Cochrane we will be supporting the Cochrane Activettes who are a major part of providing Christmas for needy families here.

The other charity is Opportunity International. My dream for Willowrose is to be involved with micro-enterprise, or as it is sometimes also called - micro-lending or micro-credit.

Micro-enterprise
The basic idea of micro-enterprise is the lending of money to business people and entrepreneurs in poor areas of the world. These loans – which are small compared to what we are used to – sometimes as little as $50 – can make it possible for the person receiving it to grow a business that will supply food, clothing, shelter and an opportunity for a better life for their family.

I learned about micro-lending a number of years ago and found myself quite intrigued by the idea. As a business person, I love the idea of being able to help a fellow business person - someone who is willing to work in a business of their own.

I love the idea of this being a hand-up, not just a hand-out. That idea of “give a man a fish and you feed him for a day – but teach a man how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”

I also love the idea that this is a gift that keeps giving. This money is not just “given” to people, it is “lent” to people – with the expectation that it will be paid back. At which point it can be lent out again – and again – and again.

Even though our economy is going through a difficult time, we still are incredibly wealthy compared to so many others. So I encourage you to give what you can.

There are several opportunities available for donating or for getting involved. Check those out on the Donations page.

All donors who give their names will be honored on a Donors List here on the website.

From my heart to yours – thank you for making a difference!
Evelyn Grace Marinoski