One of my favorite holiday traditions involves a festive gift exchange with my nieces, nephews, siblings, and their partners. We draw names around Thanksgiving, and each person buys a small gift for the person whose name they picked. But here’s the twist: along with the gift, we also make a donation to a cause that the recipient values. It’s a beautiful way to contribute to something meaningful while also spreading joy.
The Shift Towards Charitable Giving
This shift away from material gifts toward experiences and charitable donations is a trend I absolutely support. It reduces waste and channels our resources into causes that really matter. However, with so many charities out there, it can be tricky to identify which ones are truly reputable and which ones might be less than honest. That’s where Greatist’s recently published 2019 Charity Gift Guide comes in handy. This guide is a treasure trove of vetted organizations and suggestions, ensuring your contributions are impactful.
Thoughtful Gift Ideas
For example, if you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for your daughter’s teacher, you could donate to Girls Inc., which empowers young girls through mentorship and educational programs. Pair it with Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s book, “We Should All Be Feminists,” for a personal touch. Or, for the globetrotter in your life, consider a donation to Doctors Without Borders along with a scratch map to track their travels.
There’s also a great option for kids: a jump rope paired with a donation to Action for Healthy Kids, which promotes healthy lifestyles among youth. And for the animal enthusiast, a donation to Patriot PAWS, which trains service dogs for veterans, could be a heartfelt choice.
Making a Positive Impact
The holiday season is all about kindness and making a positive impact in our communities, and donating in someone’s name is a wonderful way to do both. If you’re curious to learn more about home insemination, check out this resource from Mount Sinai, which offers valuable insights into pregnancy and family planning. Additionally, if you’re interested in more related topics, you can visit our other blog post on home insemination kits for a deeper understanding.
Conclusion
In summary, if you want to elevate your gift-giving this year, consider making a donation to a worthy cause in honor of your loved ones. It’s not just a gift; it’s a way to spread love and support those in need.