Trying to reach across hemispheres

There is no question that people care about issues happening outside of their local community and home country. However the most difficult part of international philanthropy and activism has always been trying to reach across hemispheres (metaphorically of course). It seems as though international outreach for many of us is limited to charitable donations to intriguing causes, but even philanthropy excludes those who may not have the financial capabilities to make a significant contributions even though they have the heart. This brings us to another point, what exactly do we care about? Do we even have a good understanding about the issues most worthy of investment worldwide and which non profits are doing the best job of helping to relieve those problems? Access to accurate information about international non profits and international news has always been available but not through mainstream newspapers and websites. However with the internet today there are so many ways to become active internationally besides just charitable giving from well, behind your computer. We just have to know where to look.

My favorite international non profit is the magazine and interactive website World Pulse. World Pulse is a 501 (c) 3 stationed in Portland whose mission is to "broadcast the unheard voices and innovative solutions of women worldwide." The World Pulse website has news articles and personal accounts from female activists around the world and constant updates between magazine publications. Pulsewire is World Pulse's interactive media site where women can share stories, request and offer resources, collaboratively come up with solutions, make connections, and sell their crafts through the website's Marketplace. The best part is that third world women who often live under oppressive regimes and rarely get to tell their stories are being given the opportunity to speak out and advocate for change. All they need to connect with the world is access to a local internet cafe and a computer. The opportunities that the internet offers are huge for activists and philanthropists from both ends of the spectrum. The internet also gives students and others with little time and few funds the ability to get involved and share opinions without having to take a plane to volunteer.

Sites to explore:

World Pulse:

http://worldpulse.com/

Pulse Wire:

http://worldpulse.com/pulsewire

http://www.girleffect.org/

Philanthropy:

http://www.waterforpeople.org/

http://www.globalgiving.org/

http://www.care.org/

http://www.kiva.org/

Find blogs by country:

http://globalvoicesonline.org/

http://www.refugeesinternational.org/blog

I'm sure there are hundreds more. Feel free to post any cool international news or philanthropy sites you want to spread the word about :)

- Sarah