Monthly Archives: May 2008

As some of you may know, I’ve developed a passion for microfinance. My journey into exploring microfinance started back in April of 2007 (wow, over a year ago) when I discovered Kiva and realized the potential for using web 2.0 technology to change people’s lives. Additionally, in August, one of my best friends from high school, Kayla Villnow, made the decision to live and work in the Dominican Republic helping grow microfinance. She now works for Esperanza, a lender of micro loans founded by Dave Valle (long-time Mariners catcher). In September, Kayla sent me an e-mail that I highlighted on this blog that I could not ignore; I concluded by saying this: I think there … Continue reading →

I’m going to attend a public forum on microcredit Thursday at UW — if you live in the Seattle area and are interested in learning more about microfinance, the details are below. Date: Thursday, May 29, 2008 Time: 6:30 p.m. Location: University of Washington, Kane Hall 220 and the Walker Ames Room 225 Panelists include: Rick Beckett, CEO of Global Partnerships Peter Bladin, VP of Grameen Foundation and Director of Grameen Technology Center Terry Provance, Executive Director of Oikocredit USA Sangita Sigdyal, Deputy Director of the Microcredit Summit Campaign Carol Welch, former U.S. Coordinator of the U.N. Millennium Campaign Moderator: Penny LeGate, KIRO TV news anchor and reporter This forum is second in a series … Continue reading →

Before reading further, first ask yourself several questions: Do you live in Seattle? Do you enjoy Happy Hour? Do you like supporting good causes? If the answer to all three questions is “YES” — then read on. One of my good friends works for St. Jude Children’s Hospital and I’m happy to say she’s organized the first Friends of St. Jude Happy Hour in Seattle. The event is going to be May 20th (next week) at Del Rey in Belltown! We will be meeting in the back room, and tacos will be provided until they run out. We would love to have you join us for some free food, a chance to network with some … Continue reading →