One Day's Wages

I appreciate our staff, board, donors, and partners on the field. I'm especially grateful for the organization's theory of change that particularly amplifies localization - the importance of local partners, leaders, and solutions.

I’ve been part of One Day’s Wages (ODW) for over 12 years— as a donor, on the Adviaory Board and then Board of Directors. As an international development practitioner myself, I value ODW’s commitment and intention to partner with community-based organizations addressing root causes of extreme poverty.

I’ve been proud to serve on the Board of Directors since 2019. We are fortunate to have donors who believe in supporting small, locally lead projects in parts of the world that don’t get the attention or focus that larger projects and organizations attract. But local organizations are able to run tailored programs for people and meet their needs in areas like education, skills training, light infrastructure, and etc. that make a difference for those who receive services or trainings in a way larger organizations cannot (and should not) do - it’s really a different way to help improve the living conditions of people in neighborhoods around the world.

I have been volunteering with One Day's Wages for nearly a year now. ODW is an impactful, international development organization that works to support grassroots organizations through grants with a bottom-up approach, strengthening local capacity and ensuring projects are locally led generating long-term sustainability and impact.

I am privileged to serve on the Board of One Day's Wages with incredibly smart, thoughtful, experienced and compassionate people from the corporate and non-profit world. I have tremendous respect for the founders, Minhee and Eugene Cho who are sincere and sacrificial. Before I joined the BOD, I knew that my donations were going to the right NGOs who were fully vetted by a team that I trusted. Now I that I have seen the application and review process first hand, I have even more trust and faith in the organizations that ODW supports across the globe.

I've been supporting ODW for over 10 years! As a global development professional, ODW is one the most credible organizations I've ever worked with and supported. I love ODW's emphasis and practical embodiment of transparency, empowerment of the most vulnerable, local and indigenous leadership that transforms, and mutually beneficial partnership that honor the dignity and voice of our partners. What an incredible organization with deep roots in humility and generosity and rich vision that continues to stay relevant in global development.

One Days Wages is an amazing organization that I fully trust with my donations. I have personally met many of their partners abroad and every time I am not surprised to find that ODW already partners with them. I truly trust ODW to get my donations into the pockets of those who need it the most.

One Days Wages is a granting organization that specializes at reaching and supporting grassroots organizations! Their goal is to alleviate global poverty one day at a time.

Over the past few months of volunteering with this organization I've felt incredibly supported and empowered to make a difference on my team! Its been a great organization to be a part of

amazing organization pivoted at the beginning of Covid to help people get fed during pandemic. Cannot say enough about them!

I have been remotely volunteering for One Day's Wages for 3 years now and still fully champion the mission: to eliminate extreme global poverty. Seeing the inner operations of this organization is humbling and the transparency in the 100% giving model is excellent stewardship of the dollars that are donated.

I have always admired the heart and work before joining the One Day's Wages team. Working for them directly has only confirmed that they truly live out their mission. I am challenged and inspired by their transparency and grassroots approach to end extreme poverty.

I've been a part of One Days Wages for now over 10 years. My wife and I are part of a number of non-profits, and what we love about ODW is the transparency and accountability they have towards each dollar they receive. The model is one that is so fantastic, where every single dollar that is donated (minus credit card fees - yes, that's how transparent they are) goes to the projects they support. How does this work though when they have paid staff you might ask - well that was the first question that came to my mind, and it is really quite simple AND elegant - they hold a gala once a year and whatever they raise raise during the gala is what they have for their salaries and other administrative expenses for the next year. There are so many other things to call out, like how incredible Eugene, and Minhee, the founders are, and how incredible the staff is, but the last thing I'd like to call your attention to is the values that ODW embodies, and the one that resonates with me the most is "empowerment" through which they work with local leaders on the ground who actually know what is required to address their problems in a sustainable manner. I would highly encourage you to just check out their site and think about just doing your part to get engaged, because when we all get involved in our little ways, we can together have a truly lasting impact.
Ranjit

What I loved working as a grant analyst intern was the breadth of issues the organization tackled, from human trafficking to water security. In this project-based environment, I really enjoyed the opportunity to take ownership when communicating with potential partners and seeing my work creating a positive impact. The leadership and team members kept each other accountable, all the while collaborating in concert to achieve ODW's mission.

I'm the Grants Manager at a nonprofit partnering with ODW. We worked with ODW's fantastic, responsive team to raise a large matching grant for a vocational school program in Nepal - and right before the vocational program was supposed to start, COVID hit. One Day's Wages has been incredible during our process of responding to the crisis. They've extended deadlines, communicated thoughtfully, and offering encouragement and a sense of solidarity that has been so appreciated in these stressful times. It's clear that their team not only cares about the people we're all ultimately serving, but they're willing to work with their partner nonprofits to keep the work sustainable, appropriate to the times, and really grounded in mutual goodwill and cooperation.

If you're considering donating to One Day's Wages or one of their partner programs, be assured that their partner nonprofits - and their shared beneficiaries! - are in good hands. ODW is responsive, flexible, and ultimately very interested in seeing each program succeed. From start to finish, they're attentive and focused on the highest-quality programs possible, and they do their part to ensure that they're contributing to the success of everyone involved - even in a worldwide health crisis. Thank you, One Day's Wages!!

One Day's Wages is wonderful! I really love their grassroots approach. Funding people within communities decolonizes non-profit work abroad and I really love it. I got to put together a plant basket for their silent auction at their gala. I had lots of fun offering something I love, that's so simple to do, for a cause that means so much to me. It was a wonderful experience.

I have known about One Days Wages for several years, so in 2020 with so many people suffering losses due to Coronavirus, when I wanted to make sure that the money I donated was used for maximum impact, I gave to ODW.

I found out about One Day's Wages through DevEx and was immediately inspired after reading Pastor Cho's book "Overrated", which is about the events that lead to the founding of the organization. I have now been working as an Impact Editor Intern for the organization for 3 months. The organization cultivates a very friendly organizational culture and you can tell that it is an organization dedicated to transparency, accountability, impact, and building long-term partnerships. This organization isn't just about looking good by putting a bunch of projects on its website. They believe in fostering a relationship with the organizations they donate to (and often donate to them again and again) to make sure the impact lasts into the future. Being on the communications team, I have noticed that they are also really committed to making sure they present stories with responsibility - making sure that the stories they share accurately depict the dignity, strength and realities of beneficiaries. This is something that really stands out to me about the organization, not to mention the incredibly passionate and kind team of people who work there.

I learned of One Day's Wages through my best friend who was interning there. She loved her work and it made me want to know more. As her internship/ volunteer experience was coming to a close that they were searching for new volunteers. Interviewing with ODW and getting the job was such an incredible experience. It has been really cool working for a grassroots organization where I know the work I am doing is going towards such a good cause. I have had a lot of fun curating auction items and working with donors as well and seeing my work pay off was really rewarding. It has also been a unique experience because I have gotten such wonderful mentorship from full time employees, such as Jessinia, who always challenge and support me. Donors can have full confidence that their money is going towards making real change.

I've learned a great deal from One Day's Wages (ODW) and the nonprofit world. They are holistic in how they support people in need, giving them resources in the form of education, basic infrastructure, money, hope, and more. I appreciate how honest ODW is with their donors and their gala's are always a blast. ODW's staff is first - passionate about social justice and second - employees. They truly care about the work that they're doing and are very appreciative of the help they receive. I love ODW!

I first heard of One Day's Wages when I was a college student, and was excited that they partner with local leaders to empower change regarding multiple justice issues from the ground, up. My junior year in college I hosted a ODW "Birthday for a Cause," and it was incredible way for me to invite my friends and family to donate to a cause I cared about (I believe I specifically chose an education-related fund.) Later on, the church I'm a part of began partnering with ODW for their annual "Christmas Party for a Cause," auctioning off items donated by local businesses, and church members to raise fund's for ODW's Refugee Relief partnerships. In both my personal, and broader experience with ODW, I was amazed with the organization's transparency (re: funds, their partner orgs, and actual impact), and with how personable and helpful the staff were. So much, that I recently decided to volunteer regularly with ODW! Since being able to see how things work on the back-end of this non-profit, I'm increasingly impressed by the integrity and respect that the ODW staff team embodies. I look forward to continuing to learn from, and grow with this incredible organization.

As a new intern, I have had nothing but great experiences here at One Day's Wages. In learning about ODW's mission and values, I have come to admire the organization's grassroots approach to development. I am inspired by the values of empowerment, dignity, transparency, and mutuality that ODW incorporates into all of their work. I feel grateful to have the opportunity to work with this incredible group of people!

One Day’s Wages is an honest, transparent with strong goals and values. After having the opportunity to work with them for the past summer, I have seen countless examples of their sustainable service in action!

One Day's Wages is an outstanding nonprofit. As a volunteer, I have personally been a part of the vetting process to choose projects to fund. Donors can be confident that their money is going directly and successfully to the causes they care about. Every decision made by ODW is collaborative and transparent. This small nonprofit changes the world in big ways!

I've been volunteering as a Grant Analyst for the past 2 months and it's been very enjoyable and informative. Through One Day's Wages existing and new partnerships with various organizations, it's helped me see how so many organizations are creatively and significantly making a difference in the world. It's a privilege to take part in the grant vetting process to continue to make an impact in so many places that are in much need. And the side perk of volunteering at One Days' Wages is the staff who are very professional and friendly!

Working for One Day's Wages as an intern has been such a rewarding experience. When you read about any organization on their website, everything looks nice and great, but I think it was really different to see how small nonprofit works behind the scenes. The amount of work ODW's small staff puts into everything that they do is encouraging and knowing that the core values of the organization is constantly being thought about really shows that they're determined to commit to what they say. Personally, I think it's one thing to work where you enjoy it just because, but it's another to work somewhere you enjoy it because you really believe in the work. When it comes to the actual staff, everything is friendly, helpful and always willing to teach. In the short time I've been working here, I've already learn so much about how nonprofits run, as well as the actual urgency of alleviating extreme global poverty.

I've been volunteering with ODW for three years & I'm so grateful to be investing in a movement that is making a sustainable difference. Reviewing partnerships, gathering data from reports, & learning more about the opportunities for creative development projects is such a rewarding experience with ODW. They believe in the power of stories, transparency, & seeking justice through empowering those in need. ODW is a great non-profit to support & be involved in!!

I became involved with ODW four years ago. It was at that time my son became a volunteer and now is on staff. What I love about ODW is their mission, their commitment, their work ethic, but most of all their vision to make the world a better place! Having visited Third World countries I know all too well the need. ODW is helping people who need help so so much! Their gala ball is a testimony by the amount of money they raise. This is a nonprofit that is certainly recognized throughout our nation as one of credibility and action. I plan to be a lifelong donor as I believe in them to make this world a better place. I admire their commitment to this need in our world! Thank you ODW for all that you do! The children of our world is worth one days wage!

One Day's Wages is a great, unique nonprofit. When you give to ODW you get to choose whether the money goes directly to service organizations or to the administration of ODW. Both are important.

It brings me great comfort knowing my dollars are being filtered and given to only the most accountable organizations. They take the time that I don't have to make sure the donations have the most sustainable impact.

The time I spent volunteering with One Day's Wages was a rewarding and valuable experience. The organization is dedicated to their work and committed to transparency. If you are a donor, you can be assured that your money is going to the right place.

My daughter was introduced to One Days Wages as a 5th grader and has been actively supporting the organization for 6 years! She has become more informed and understanding of world issues and compassionate towards others through her involvement with One Days Wages. As an organization they have been involved in her efforts and successes and grateful for the contributions she makes. They helped her set up a fundraising page where she could track her own efforts and encourage others to join her in the "clean water" movement.

I got the opportunity to learn about One Day's Wages at their annual gala. The stories of how they've helped others in impoverished nations was inspiring. They're not just funneling funds to communities in need, but they're also giving them the tools to help lift themselves out of poverty. Their latest financials are posted on their website showing they've maintained a high program expense ratio and a low fundraising expense ratio letting you know your dollars go where it matters most. I've also had the opportunity to get to know one of their employees personally. Seeing her passion for helping others reinforces my positive view of this company. I can only imagine if they're all as caring people as she is this company can only continue to exceed all expectations and make real changes in people's lives around the world.

I have donated my birthday with ODW for the past 7 years now - it is a highlight of my year! I appreciate their mission and commitment to grassroots partnerships

I have been a volunteer and donor at One Day's Wages since its founding and continue to be amazed by its growing impact around the world. Alleviating extreme global poverty is a huge challenge, but ODW tackles the problem in such a smart and transparent way. By breaking down poverty to its root causes (i.e. children's education, human trafficking, water/sanitation, etc) and then partnering directly with organizations on-the-ground, around the world; One Day's Wages give me the opportunity to learn, explore and choose the causes I am passionate about and want to support.

From the start of living out a vision in 2009 by the founders, to the official start of this org in 2010, and now in 2016, One Day's Wages has been a consistent, persistent, transparent, and inclusive organization in the movement in the fight against global poverty. I am thankful for ODW, the passionate and gifted leadership, and the opportunities ODW provides for individuals like myself to empower and partner alongside the many great grassroots organizations around the world already doing good and powerful work.

After working for this organization, I must say that this is an amazing movement. The staff, interns, and volunteers are all friendly and welcoming people. The organization as a whole exhibits great transparency, financial integrity, and a commitment to global development. The founder, Eugene Cho, is a wonderful visionary and great leader. My experience working for this organization is nothing short of fantastic and I highly recommend it to all prospective volunteers, donors, etc.

I first heard of One Day's Wages and thought it was a great idea to raise money and fund small projects that work towards poverty alleviation. Now, as an intern with ODW, I have seen first hand the impact that ODW has in the world. The staff is committed to each cause and works hard to make sustainable improvements in people's lives through empowering projects.

I am an intern with One Day's Wages and I feel honored to intern with them because of their mission and engagement with my local community. My internship enables me to pursue greater understanding of my field of study (Global Development) and be a part of a passionate team working to alleviate global poverty. I love that they help donors feel connected and informed about the projects they fund. They focus on average people and enabling average people to make a difference in the huge issue of global poverty.

Such a great nonprofit that emphasizes holistic, grassroots, community-driven development. All donations go to development projects. The analysts that work for ODW work hard to identify projects where donations will have the most "bang for the buck."

I truly regard One Days Wages as an exceptional nonprofit. Their values, transparency and efficiency are some of the key factors which have kept me connected to this organization. Through them, I continue to learn about poverty alleviation impacting communities all over the world, in the poorest communities, and ways in which we can continue to work together toward this end. We are so thankful for the work of One Days Wages- so very vital and critical.

Working as a college intern at ODW has helped me in a lot of different ways. Interning here, I was able to experience first hand the kind of work we do. We are very careful and thoughtful when vetting organizations to fund. ODW also marks the importance that anyone can help in the fight against poverty--whether you are a young kid or a college student, anyone can help alleviate poverty. It's amazing to see the partnership we have created and the impact that we have made through fundraising and raising awareness. Since our launch in 2009, we have impacted over 400,000 people. This was all done through empowering everyday people to join in the fight against poverty, creating meaningful partnerships that are vetted, making sure they are transparent, sustainable, and empowering. This organization truly embraces the importance of empowerment and I highly recommend to anyone who wants to get involved to alleviate extreme poverty.

As someone with some exposure and interest in the non-profit sector, I was first drawn to ODW because of their simple mission statement. After working as a college intern for the summer, my belief in the integrity and dedication of this organization was reaffirmed. Not only is ODW made up of a staff that is genuinely passionate and educated about the issues around the world, but it also works on a principle of international aid that actually works. Rather than just throwing money at impoverished countries or falling into the trap of the "savior complex", ODW works diligently to partner with local, community-based organizations in the places with the most need to support their projects. The process behind their grant system is well-structured and thorough, placing an emphasis on follow-through and follow-up. Overall, this creates a partnership model that actually works! On a lighter note, I had a blast working here and the team is just full of really good people. If you're looking to volunteer or get involved, I highly recommend. Otherwise, it's a great NGO to donate too (especially since all the money goes straight to the Causes and not admin. costs! Unless you want to donate to Operations - which you should also do!)

I've been involved with One Day's Wages (ODW) for the past 6+ years and have so loved the way they go about their work to alleviate extreme global poverty. ODW is so thoughtful about the types of orgs and projects they partner with to ensure it actually addresses the problem at hand, prioritizes the sustainability of the work and the local people, and does so without exploiting/romanticizing the issue or people affected. There's so much intention to NOT have a savior complex, which is something I so appreciate.

The other aspect of ODW I love is that they empower everyone to get involved, not just those with a lot of money or influence. I love seeing a large base of young people get involved tangibly by donating or raising awareness because ODW empowers them to use what they have where they are to make an actual difference in people's lives.

There is a lot of pain in the world and there are a lot of great orgs doing work to address these ills, but ODW is one of the few I've chosen to spend most of my time/resources on because of their intentionality, empowerment of everyday people, thoughtfulness, and importance on being raw about the issues while not exploiting the people affected.

One Day's Wages holds a high standard that I wish all non-profits held. I look to them as guides in the non-profit community. They use their resources and time amazingly well for how small they are. They vet organizations with increasing diligence and make sure that they are giving money to organizations and projects that need it, are diligent with their resources, and provide information on what was invested. I'm proud to know them and see how committed they are to the best development possible. They truly want to change lives, but not so they can look great and amazing, but because it is worth doing.

For my personal journey, I traveled the world looking for great non-profits (no joke, I started an organization looking for remarkable grassroot organizations). Eventually, after searching every corner of the internet for these organizations, I realized the ones that I liked and wanted to work with had already all worked with One Day's Wages. There was something they were doing that was right.

Beyond all of this, their leadership continues to amaze me with their humility in their service. Keep at it ODW team. I wish there was thousands of organizations like this.

ODW is a great organization that finds worthy non-profit groups to support with grants. They are meticulous in their vetting process, and transparent in their use of funds. Highly trustworthy, and supporting amazing work to combat global poverty!

One Day's Wages (ODW) is a new grassroots movement of people, stories, and actions to alleviate extreme global poverty. ODW promotes awareness, invites giving, and supports sustainable relief through partnerships, especially with smaller organizations in developing regions.
According to UNICEF, approximately 3 billion people live on less than US $2/day and 1.4 billion people live on less than US $1.25/day - the definition of those living in extreme poverty.
The good news is that, there are already individuals and organizations around the world doing amazing work to alleviate extreme poverty. We're not trying to re-invent the wheel but rather to collaborate and partner with others. In short, ODW is joining them in the fight.
ODW donates 100% of funds (minus credit card costs) to organizations’ specific Sustainable Development projects all over the developing World, with the goal of changing individual lives in the greater context of community. They utilize volunteer staff and interns to engage their donor community, review organizations, and provide administrative assistance, while only employing 2 full-time staff members.
Since November 2008, One Day’s Wages has raised over $1,200,000, and funded 35 partnerships, a lot of it with a relatively young donor base.
The work that One Day’s Wages performs given the size of the organization is remarkable.