Kathleen M. Snoddon recently returned from Morocco where she was able to witness microfinance first-hand. This is the final entry in a five-part blog series about her journeys.
FONDEP Borrower
Having left Baiya’s with apologies for not being able to stay longer, we approached our original meeting place and could see our companions gathered and waiting our arrival. It was hot and they were both exhilarated and spent by the activities and encounters of the last several hours. I wanted to stay longer. I wanted to spend time with each and every woman who had made the effort to forge a future for themselves and their families. I wanted to hear what their aspirations were for themselves and their children.
Muhammad Yunus’ model for non-collateralized, small loans consists of the formation of groups or “pods” that serve as a support system to guarantee that any one person does not default on their loan. Groups are formed with women who usually know each other and are, preferably, engaged in different enterprises. This peer system has proven very effective and provides more than just monetary fall back in the case of sickness or an event that interferes with a borrower’s ability to make her loan payments. There is an emotional support system inherent in this structure. 
Next month’s Grameen Foundation e-newsletter will feature kids and young adults from all over the world talking about poverty. We will share video blogs from a group of high school and college students who recently visited Morocco to witness microfinance first-hand. We will include games, client stories and other interactive content for kids. And, we want to hear from YOUR kids, too!
