What do you give to the person who has everything? When I find myself in this position I like to find gifts that serve a purpose, gifts that give back. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be a philanthropist, it feels good to do for others, especially during the holidays.
Making a donation to a favorite charity in the recipient’s name is a lovely idea, but sometimes you feel like you want to give a material gift. Why not do both? We found a few organizations that offer lovely gifts that spread the wealth. Read on to find out more.
Eternal Flame Necklace - Made by Survivors
Made by Survivors offers survivor-made goods as a way to fight modern day slavery and help survivors rejoin society. The eternal flame sterling silver pendant hangs on an 18" sterling chain. This is a beautiful unique piece designed by Jenny Reeves that can be worn with pride. $58; MadebySurvivors.com
Gourmet dog treats - Lindy's bakery
Have any doggies on your list this year? Buy these healthy, delicious treats from Lindy & Company. Because the only thing worse than seeing homeless pets roam the streets is knowing that so many of our youth are homeless too. These yummy treats are homemade by homeless youth in Dayton, Ohio. $5.99; LindyandCompany.org
Books and Toys - Kohls Cares
We love the books and matching plushes you can buy at Kohls; we have a few from their summer collection and many more that we've collected over the years. 100 percent of the net profit supports children’s health initiatives nationwide which to date has added up to $300 million through the Kohl’s Cares merchandise program. $5 each; Kohls.com
The Nook - Net Effects
There are all sorts of bags available at Net Effects made by local artisans provided with fair wages. A portion of every sale goes to Nothing But Nets, an international organization providing mosquito nets to a Cambodian families in need. This useful cosmetic bag is available in four color choices. $24.95; neteffects.com
Lily Bracelet - Songa Designs
We love this unique bold bracelet made from banana leaf, sisal plant and repurposed cow horn. It and many other beautiful wearables are made by talented women in under-resourced countries given the opportunity to achieve economic independence by using their skills while receiving fair wages. $42; SongaDesigns.com
Seasonal Soy Candles - Bright Endeavors
Bright Endeavors is a social enterprise lighting the path out of poverty for adolescent moms in Chicago through a paid job-training program. The candles are handcrafted and signed by participants. Bright Endeavors signature glass candles come in the following seasonal scents: Pumpkin Chai, Whitebark Pine and our favorite, Holiday Citrus. Candles make wonderful gifts; choose this one and you'll also be giving a chance to someone in need. $24.99; BrightEndeavors.com
Samples were received for consideration.
I think it’s nice to give a gift that give back. Thanks for compiling a list of ideas. The necklace is pretty.
what a great idea! Love that you have shared this and I’ll have to take a look and purchase some of these gifts for loved ones… thanks!
I love this! Those soy candles look amazing – I need to try them out! Thanks for sharing!
What a great way to give back! Tis The Season and I love it!
I believe giving during the holidays is better than receiving and these gift ideas that give back are indeed an awesome idea. The Bright Endeavors candles are a great gift idea that give back and I will have to check them out for sure. Thanks for sharing the gift ideas that can give back too.
I am all for patronizing companies or businesses that give back to the community and empower women and the underprivileged. I am adding these items to my Christmas list!
I love gifts and companies that give back. I’ve added a couple of these on my gift giving list because I know the perfect recipient for them.
I love stuff like this. It’s nice to know some companies care about their communities.
It is super cool to have gifts that give back .. I always try to seek out gift ideas like this during the holiday season!