Let's face it: Who has time to become a full-time humanitarian?

I don't. And I'm sure you don't too.

But I know you're a good person. And I know you want to make a difference. (You wouldn't have signed up for this e-letter if you didn't!)

That's why I wanted to find some clever ways for you to "save the world" in less than 10 minutes.

And the best thing is you don't even have to leave your PC to help!
 
1. How to help children worldwide
Unicef points out that over 10 million children worldwide are exploited because of poverty and lack of education. Lend a hand by becoming a ‘family member’ of Serving Our World at: www.servingourworld.org. With a few clicks of the mouse, you can give a once-off donation equivalent to $30, or sign up for a monthly donation on the site. Donations help with the provision of homes, meals, education and skill training around the world.

2. How to help children closer to home...
Help Cotlands to continue its good work among orphaned children by visiting: www.cotlands.org. Your sponsorship achieves the following:
* R40 per month pays for sterilising agent for their bottles.
* R50 buys a baby grow.
*  R75 can buy a tin of milk formula, which provides two weeks of three hourly feeds.
* R420 pays for a child’s funeral.
 
Make a direct donation online or add a bequest to Cotlands in your Will. Forms are available from the website and can be faxed to (011) 683-6688.  And if you’d like to get more personally involved, Cotlands has a volunteer programme, which allows you to spend Saturday mornings with the children.
 
3. Soft spot for animals?
Open a Nedbank Green Affinity account, which supports the World Wide Fund for Nature.
 
Or lend the NSPCA a hand. The NSPCA is not just about dogs and cats, but also deals with farm animals, wildlife and education for pet owners in poor areas, with the goal of preventing cruelty. Banking details for your local NSPCA are available from: www.nspca.co.za. Also, click on the tag that says “tell a friend”, which generates an email encouraging others to get involved.
 
You don't have to give up your job and back pack into Zimbabwe to make a difference. I really believe that the smallest things can make make a big difference.

And isn't that an empowering thought?