Supporter profile: Giles Hunt

Giles Hunt's interest in microfinance was first kindled when he was studying for a graduate degree.

As part of the degree Mr Hunt was required to investigate a case study, the Grameen Bank, which originated in Bangladesh as a means to give the rural poor access to loans and other banking services. Importantly, the bank was also established to tackle the exploitation of the poor by predatory money lenders.

"I found the fact that it was designed to help the poor build businesses, and was all about empowerment for individuals and communities, completely fascinating," says Mr Hunt. "So my wife and I began financially supporting some offshore microfinance projects."

Mr Hunt initially began donating to Good Shepherd Youth & Family Service not because of our microfinance programs, but because we are a local community organisation doing important work with children and families. In fact, he had no knowledge of our microfinance programs. It was only after reading Shepherd's Voice that he realised we operated microfinance programs of our own - and he was staggered.

"I could see how microfinance would be needed in developing countries," he says, "but I'd never really considered that it might be required here."

A pragmatic approach

Mr Hunt began doing some volunteer work supporting our microfinance programs. He was astounded at how many people the programs were supporting to purchase essential household items they would otherwise have struggled to buy; and also pleased that a genuine alternative to high interest and high risk fringe lending services was being run to support vulnerable people and families.

"Microfinance just seems to me to be a really pragmatic, down-to-earth alternative option for people to be able to buy the basic fundamental tools they need to live their lives," he says.

Mr Hunt and his wife decided some time ago to become regular givers to Good Shepherd Youth & Family Service. Joining our Good Giving Program means they have a designated amount direct debited from their account each month, which makes it convenient for them to support our important work.

It also helps us plan for the future, ensuring the ongoing viability of services just like our microfinance programs - services supporting people across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula to look after themselves and their families.

To join our Good Giving Program and become a regular donor to Good Shepherd Youth & Family Service, please call or visit www.goodshepvic.org.au/donatemonthly