The holidays are all about giving, but sometimes we get caught up with all of the “stuff” associated with what has become an industrialized Christmas season. Are you hesitant to hit the mall? Our gift to you: 12 gift ideas that benefit others for your family, friends and people you don’t even know yet.
Mom, who “doesn’t want anything”: Heifer International– If she doesn’t really want that sweater or bag, donate a flock of geese, a pig or even honey bees to someone who can benefit from these animals instead. Print out the certificate of donation, and wrap it up for her. She’ll be so grateful that you helped someone else while thinking of her. Give give give!
Mom (a second option): Altruette Charm Bracelets– 50% of every purchase goes toward the designated charity. For example, a honey bee charm supports the Honey Bee Research Fund, and a notebook charm supports Girls Write Now. All pieces of jewelry are available in gold and recycled sterling silver. All products are made in the USA. As you add to a bracelet or necklace, you support more and more charities and spread the word about these causes, while looking absolutely fabulous.
Dad: Invisible Children T-shirt- Give him a short story about child soldiers along with the T-shirt, and whenever he wears it, he can spread the word too.
Grandma and Grandpa: Blue Silk Scarves: All scarves and ties are 100% silk, hand-dyed and made by women in Cambodia who find refuge at the Stung Treng Women’s Development Center. These richly colored silk scarves, ties, bags and handkerchiefs range from $45 to $60 and support the center and the women who make them by providing child care, literacy and health classes, and education for their children. (And your grandparents can match!)
Sister: Falling Whistles– These whistle necklaces represent child soldiers in the Congo, and money from all proceeds contribute to preventing the kidnapping of these children who are forced to fight on the front line.
Brother: Tom’s Eyewear- If he already has the shoes, think about sunglasses (or another pair of shoes). He get’s an awesome pair of shades. You give the gift of sight.
Aunt: Ten Thousand Villages– This shop sells handmade crafts from around the world. All items are fair trade, and their products range from jewelry to games to musical instruments. You can find great house warming gifts here too! Sponsor a fair trade crafts person in Uganda, Nepal, Egypt, or any of the other hundred countries which Ten Thousand Villages sponsors.
Uncle: Global Fund- Have other family members pitch in, and buy him a new red ipod nano. For every red ipod nano sold, Apple donates $10 to the Global Fund, which helps women and children living with HIV/AIDS in Africa.
Friends: Some of the best gifts don’t cost any money. For this snowflake ornament, you only need 3 materials: hot glue, a wire hanger, and buttons. Find a tutorial here. For the coffee-addicted friend, create a Cup Cuff by recycling a sweater. It’s eco-friendly, simple, and will protect hands from a hot Starbucks cup.
Boyfriend: Make a calendar with a different photo for each month. Be sure to add in birthdays, holidays, and any other important events. Use Vista Print and print it out on photo paper. It’s almost too easy, inexpensive and incredibly thoughtful.
Dog: Nothing says Merry Christmas to your dog like yummy Doggie Bark. Find the recipe here.