In an effort to build on the successful model of micro-lending popularized by charitable stalwart Kiva, new organization Jolkona - Bengali for “drop of water” - hopes to capture the 15 to 34 demographic with a social media component that will help bring to life the impact of these donations. For as little as $5, would-be philanthropists can choose to fund a project, granting them access to their own personal page where they receive updates through photos, videos and stories that provide a narrative and connection with the individuals being helped.

In a world increasingly connected though technology where notions of immediacy and transparency are expected and these far-flung relationships become commonplace, this model of giving makes a lot of sense. Instead of spending a dollar to send your friend a virtual bouquet of flowers, why not spend five and fundamentally change a stranger’s life and in the process, join a community and make a new friend.