Tell us a bit about yourself.
Although originally from Melbourne, Australia, I now live at Stawell. It is a country town in Victoria with a gold mining history and a working mine. Since 2005 I have been retired. Prior to that I was a teacher and Student Welfare Counsellor.
What do lending and participating in this project mean to you?
There is so much need and to be able to help families help themselves is a privilege.
Did you choose particular borrowers because their occupations or situations have some significance in your family history or your own life?
My first loan was for quarrying. Many of my forebears were quarriers and brick makers. It is a hard life but I note that the borrowers are on their third loan. Kiva is helping make a difference. My second loan was to a man in Iraq. I have taught students who came to Australia as refugees from Iraq. I know the stories.
Do you have a strategy for raising funds or saving for your $25 loans?
So far I have made two loans and sent five Kiva gift cards. I am watching repayments and will add some more soon to help another family.
Your Web site or blog?
http://ongoingsearchforlostormissingstories.blogspot.com/
What are your main family history interests?
Mostly I am tracing my family, and descendants, who arrived in Australia in the 19th century. There are many. Additionally I like to help others with their research. It delights me that I keep finding people with whom I share family connections - however loose.
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