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Microfinance provides a gateway

*This article was submitted by Ian Haisley from Opportunity International.

On March 8, International Women's Day, the Women's Opportunity Network of Opportunity International launches a virtual quilt to raise funds and to connect people who want to make a difference with the working poor around the world. Patches on the Global Opportunity Quilt can be purchased for $25 to honor a friend on International Women's Day, Mother's Day, birthdays or other events throughout the year.

The Global Opportunity Quilt, which weaves together inspirational and educational messages about women effecting change around the world, can be viewed at www.optinnow.org/ quilt. Purchasers choose a patch from several beautiful designs and write a message that can be read by everyone visiting the quilt. The honored friend receives an email with a link to view the quilt plus a $25 gift card that can be used to help fund a loan for an entrepreneur at optINnow.org. OptInNow is an online donation site with photos and stories of real women in the developing world who need a loan to help them build their business and a better life for their families.

Our virtual quilt started from square one with the hope that it would grow into something big and beautiful said Ruth-Anne Renaud, vice president of women's philanthropy for Opportunity International. This is an inspirational and interactive way to raise awareness and funds for loans for women across the globe who are struggling to work their way out of extreme poverty.

For more information on the Global Opportunity quilt, visit www.optinnow.org./quilt.

About the Women's Opportunity Network
The Women's Opportunity Network (WON) is a powerful network of women supporters and staff committed to helping Opportunity International end global poverty faster. The mission of WON is to invest in the lives of women around the world, giving them access to financial services and training that transform their lives, their children's lives and their communities. WON is committed to unleashing the potential of women around the world to make a difference - as leaders, clients, donors, supporters and mentors.

About Opportunity International
Opportunity International provides small business loans, savings, insurance and training in basic business practices to people living in chronic poverty. Entrepreneurs in the developing world use these financial services to start or expand a business, develop a steady income, provide for their families and create jobs for their neighbors. Opportunity International serves approximately 2.5 million clients in 28 developing countries. For more information, visit www.opportunity.org ... more

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