Stanford Social Innovation articles.

Greetings!

I found an interesting article in the Stanford Social Innovation Review that discusses some initiatives in the United States that share the same spirit as microfinance in that they aim to empower people instead of simply helping them. In addition to financial assassinate via loans and grants, importance is also given to teach benefactors how to use these funds and in general 'life-coaching'. This includes pro-bono consulting, vocational training and creating jobs. 

Here is the link to this article. 

Another article uses case studies from 12 successful non-profit organiation to debunk 6 myths about non-profits as well as 6 non-profit practices that have proven successful. The key points of the article are:

1. Advocating is often as necessary as serving since orgs can have a larger impact through policy. 

2. NGOs need to be financially independent.

3. Build a community round the projet/cause which will inspire others to work towards your cause.

4. collaborate with fellow non-profits.

5. Adapt to changing environments and needs of the community

6. Have a more decentralized model wherein all stakeholders, right from the benefactors to the management has a say. 

Here is the link to this article.