by Bonnie Power, TWP Donor and Evergreeen Circle Member
Several years ago, I read a news article indicating that South Dakota had some of the poorest counties in the entire United States. I decided I wanted to do something that would make a difference there. Previously, I had contributed to the support of children through Save the Children in Nepal and Greece, and my husband had contributed through a similar program to support a child on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. When I found out that there was no longer any such program helping children in South Dakota, I did an internet search and found Trees, Water & People (TWP).
As a member of the Evergreen Circle, I make a monthly donation to Trees, Water & People. Because of their high charity rating, I have encouraged friends and family to give, as well. When I have occasions where we want to do something in lieu of gifts (holidays and the like), I suggest contributions to TWP.
I like the personal reach of supporting Trees, Water & People – that my monthly check is translated directly into solar heaters, cookstoves, and tree nurseries that make an immediate difference on a small scale in real people’s lives. This has been my general pattern of charity much of my life: Trying to make a difference at a close distance.
Sustainable Development, Sustainable Livelihoods 