We, at Elliott, are committed to bettering our world and our community.  We have chosen to pursue this goal with as much of a direct connection as possible.  After a rigorous search, we identified two organizations that will help us implement an international micro loan program and a more local program to support worthwhile (yet under funded) teacher initiatives.

Our commitment lets us connect directly with and loan money to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world. To implement this micro loan strategy, we have selected the Kiva organization to facilitate our participation.   They received press attention (The Oprah Winfrey Show, NBC's Today Show, and President Clinton's book "Giving"), and the scrutiny of lenders.  By choosing a micro loan strategy through Kiva, we can "sponsor a business" and help the world's working poor make strides towards economic independence. Throughout the course of the loan (usually 6-12 months), we will receive email journal updates from the entrepreneur we've sponsored and once repaid, we can help another business grow. You can see our Kiva portfolio here.

Our second commitment is focused on the education system in the US.  We are looking to have direct impact to make the most of our contribution.  In pursuit of this goal, we selected the DonorsChoose organization.   DonorsChoose team provides an "end to end" integrity that we value. They screen each project proposal before posting it online; at our direction they purchase the materials for the teacher (shipping directly to the school); and compile photographs, student thank-you notes, and a teacher impact letter as feedback to us.  We can track and manage our giving and know that our contribution has directly benefited students in a specific class room, for a specific need. You can see our first DonorsChoose portfolio here.