Through the end of 2004, a selection of projects on globalgiving.com will receive a dollar-for-dollar match. Here are two easy ways you can participate. Click for details...

1. Contribute to GlobalGiving's Top Ten Projects
Dollar for dollar matching from the GlobalGiving Matching fund is available for those projects that are closest to reaching their funding objectives. Each project has already attracted the interest of a number of other GlobalGiving donors; your donation may be the one to help it reach its funding goal.

2. Contribute to WaterPartners Projects
Through the generosity of an anonymous donor, dollar-for-dollar matching is available for projects sponsored by WaterPartners, a U.S. non-profit that specializes in sustainable water projects overseas.

In 2002, donors from around the United States contributed over $1,000 to support women's' entrepreneurship in Northern India. Two years later, the social entrepreneur leading the initiative shares an example of the remarkable social benefit derived from your support...

By Anil Singh, Ashoka Fellow and CEO of NEED

UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA - Rekha Kashyap is 16 years old. Her mobility is limited because of the polio she suffered as a child. She can't move out of the house without the help of another person. She can?t do any work that requires the support of legs. Nonetheless, she doesn't see anything that will prevent her from achieving her goals.

Rekha now runs a Chikan Center that specializes in producing the region's world famous Chikan embroidery and employs 15 women. She also provides assistance in running a provision store at her home. She is saving money to support the family.

Rekha was able to overcome these obstacles in large part thanks to the work of Network of Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (NEED). An Indian-based NGO, NEED works to help women and children maximize their human resource potential and create positive change in socio-economic, political, environmental and cultural spheres of life.

When NEED Development Managers visited Rekha's village in early 2003, they witnessed the quality of her Chikan work as well as the physical condition that kept her confined to her home. Fully understanding Rekha's inability to come to the NEED office and knowing her intention to start a Chikan Center at home, she was given $50.

Within five days, Rekha purchased Chikan frames, mats to sit on, etc., and her center was set up. The formal inauguration of the center was held a month later and 15 women are now employed. Rekha continues to work with NEED to upgrade her skills. She is determined to succeed in her business. She is confident about her future.

NEED continues to fund similar programs throughout Northern India. Its latest project seeks to empower women farmers through organic farming practices.

Resources

• Make a donation to NEED a gift to a friend, colleague or family member.
   
• Read more about other NEED projects.