Community

Very often the power of a community to sustain itself without reliance on financial from banks and other financial institutions is under-rated. My observation as a kid growing up in a small village in India had shown me that so many families are broken due to the exhorbitant interest charged by money lenders. Here is an example where a community has come out on its own based on concepts of micro lending, helping out the poor through the implementation of Islamic principle of Zakat

Unfortunately the document is in Malayalam. But let me capture the interesting points.

1. All members of the organization joined just with the intention of getting rewarded by God.

2. There were volunteers who were dedicated for the cause of the organization with one good leader who led by example.

3. The organization started first by recruiting members who had to pay a one time amount of Rs. 10,000.

4. Anyone who had a real necessity could approach the organization by just being recommended by a member. Since the member base was really large (approx. 85) here, the amount of people who were in their network who could be possibly given an opportunity to seek help was also large.

5. There was no need for any forms of asset to be surrendered for getting a loan.

6. The person borrowing had an obligation to repay their loan instalment at the right time and if he/she didnt do that, the recommender was responsible for it. This ensured that everyone who borrowed would repay. (Quite interesting concept).

7. In addition, many activities that could empower people such as job training for who were willing to work was provided. (sewing machines).

8. Volunteers collected Zakat money and distributed it to families during Ramadhan. This impacted around 150 families.

9. Out of Good will one person donated 5.5 cents of land and another person donated the money required for building the job center that was inagurated in January.

10. A total of 20 Lakh rupees was disbursed as part of this effort in 2 years of operation.

11. There was no help from any external government agencies. Very imortant since we look at the government to help us in each and everyone of our affairs.

I believe traditional communities have such power to change their situations by helping themselves. Its just a good intention, good will of people and help from God that is really needed to remove many of the social evils.