This holiday season I am planning to buy gifts that will count “double” both in meaning and in value! The best way to accomplish this is to shop from my favorite charities, help them with their cause and at the same time give useful gifts to my loved ones!
To accomplish this task I have made a list of all the people on my Christmas list and then brain-stormed some ideas for presents. *see below.
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*Gift Ideas: scarf, cozy socks, Christmas ornament, coffee mug, desk calendar, graphic t-shirts, books, travel cup, hats or caps, doggy snacks, dog toys, baby onesies or rompers, jewelry, stationery, greeting cards, hoodie, wallet, candles, messenger bag, posters, pen set, key ring, hand lotion, fragrant soaps, slippers, journals, throws, gourmet coffee or tea, etc.
The next step involves finding my favorite organizations online and checking out their stores. Most charities sell general merchandise and a portion of the sale price goes toward benefiting their cause. (doesn’t cost buyer any extra $)
Here are some of the charities I am considering this year:
- Unicef - http://www.unicefusa.org/shop
- National Fibromyalgia Assn. - http://www.fmaware.org
- The Animal Rescue Site - http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com
- St. Jude’s Hospital - http://shop.stjude.org
- Habitat for Humanity - http://www.habitatstoreonline.com
Other places to shop & give to your favorite charities: 1) eBay’s Giving Works; 2) iGive Network; 3) Greater Good Network.
*Note: For me, gifts should never be about showing off, competing with others or winning brownie points. They shouldn’t be given because you feel obligated or need to make a good impression. A gift is measured by the thought behind it, and if you give it enough consideration, you won’t end up spending an arm & leg on items that might not be appreciated or needed!
Another great idea for charity is the Remind Santa by Click2Mail, which is perfect for any children you may have on your list. You get to send a letter from Santa with your choice of stationery, stamp & a real post mark from North Pole! In return they will donate $1 p/ letter to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. This is a great cause!
