Gifts that Give

Are you already sick of holiday shopping and it isn't even December? Take some of the stress away AND give gifts that keep on giving: make donations to charities for your friends and family. I know, I know, tearing open an envelope on Christmas morning just doesn't have the same magic as a beautifully wrapped gift. Here are a few suggestions for having the best of both worlds:

MAKE LIFE A LITTLE SWEETER
Make a donation to Heifer International. I chose the Gift of Bees, which provides struggling families worldwide with the ability to earn income through the sale of honey, beeswax and pollen. Heifer International provides an adorable gift card, which I paired with a jar of locally produced honey. I packaged it in a recycled coffee can with shredded paper and a bow made from vintage fabric. These touches are simple and inexpensive, yet are more personal and fun to open than a gift card alone.

Here are a few other suggestions for jazzing up Heifer International donations: Give yarn, knitting needles, and accessories nestled in a recycled container (cigar boxes, wide mouthed jars, and plant pots are just a few ideas). Add to this a share of a knitting basket, which provides wool producing animals to families who can raise themselves out of poverty by shearing,spinning, weaving and selling woolen goods.
Looking for a cute donation for kids? Opt for the Flock of Chicks. Pair this with a recycled egg carton filled with simple handmade or store bought yellow felt chicks and some shredded brown kraft paper. Little kids will love it!

PLAY WITH WILD ANIMALS
One of personal favorites that I donate to every year is Defenders of Wildlife. This is really a no brainer, since they have an 'adoption' program, complete with a stuffed toy, photos, and fact sheets. There is sure to be an animal of interest to that child or soft-hearted person in your life. Choose from penguins, wolves, snow leopards, sea turtles, and lots of other imperiled animals. It doesn't get much simpler than this!


THE GIFT OF WARMTH
This year, my kids and I recycled our old sweaters into simple mittens and discovered that felted wool is remarkably warm and cozy! Try pairing a donation to a local homeless shelter or 'Coats for Kids' program with a one-of-a-kind scarf, baby soaker pants, or pair of mittens, all of which are true beginner sewing projects. Pin on a handmade gift tag (mine was made from a vintage greeting card), directions for making the woolen gift, and a short description of the charity. The recipient will be reminded of this selfless act every time he/she uses it.

These are just a few of the great worthy causes out there, which, with a little creativity, can be exciting to give AND to receive.