Cheryl just pointed me towards Kiva, one of the best web sites I’ve ever laid eyes on. Microfinance firms around the world sign up and create profiles for each of their entrepreneurs who are seeking funds. You, the fat-cat Westerner who makes more than $1 a day, can make loans to these folks through the website in a matter of minutes.

The idea is that these entrepreneurs can email you with updates on how they’re using your money, and eventually they start paying you back through the same process. It’s not really going to supplant any of the charitable giving I already make (especially since it’s not tax-deductible). But I’m still really excited about it.