Plan USA

A year or two ago, I was tagged in Davis by a guy seeking donors for Plan USA, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of impoverished children worldwide.

I'm not much of a bleeding heart when it comes to people; just, y'know, the planet as a whole. But I liked the guy's approach (which unlike, say, that of Greenpeace recruiters there, was not objectionably in my face), I liked the organization's credentials, and I could sponsor a child of my choosing for $24 a month, which is less than what I can earn in half an hour. Having honeymooned in India, I felt it only reasonable to give something back to that beautiful country - much of which is desperately impoverished, and in which a female's literacy and status are not likely to be equal to a male's. So I agreed to sponsor a girl.

I've since been pleased and impressed with how far they can stretch $24 a month. Here, that's a nice meal out. There, it improves nutrition, sanitation, education, training and improvements in farming methods - basically the whole "teach a man to fish" philosophy, with the focus being on bettering the life of a child, with repercussions for his/her family and community.

I was pleased and touched when I got a letter from my child's caseworker last month, telling me that my money would no longer be needed, as her family situation is now so much improved. When I was speaking with a Plan worker afterwards, she asked if I would be willing to invest in two children now, and I said no, as this is coming out of my savings; but I said I would tell my friends about it.

So here ya go. If you feel helpless about the way so many people suffer worldwide; if you are grateful to be able to give your child a life full of rich opportunity; if you'd like to address your liberal guilt over your incredible luck in living a Western lifestyle - consider donating to this charity.