At holiday and other gift giving occasions it is sometimes so difficult to know what to buy for others. Many people I know have an over-abundance of possessions which complicates deciding what to buy them on birthdays or other special occasions. So what do you buy for the person who has everything or just too much stuff? Why not consider a donation in their name to a reputable and worthy charity or nonprofit of your, or their, choice. In some ways, this can be considered an 'air gift' since it is invisible and doesn't take up space. Consider some of the worthy nonprofit organizations below for charitable gift giving.
Heifer International
The Heifer mission is simple, “to work with communities to end hunger and poverty and to care for the earth.” For over 60 years, Heifer has worked with millions of families in 128 countries to provide animals so that people can raise their own standard of living. Heifer is cool to give as a gift to those you love because of the varying price points (from $20 to $10,000), and the variety of animals such as geese, goats, pigs, bees, ducks and sheep. When you donate in someone’s name, Heifer sends out a nice thank you card that acknowledges your gift to the recipient.
Just Give
Just Give is an umbrella organization for 1.5 million charities and nonprofits. Give a gift to Just Gift in someone else’s name and let the recipient decide where the money goes. This is a great idea to give as wedding presents, anniversary presents, or to celebrate a birthday. For the disorganized but philanthropic, Just Give can deduct a monthly donation directly from your bank account so you never forget to be generous.
National Arbor Day Foundation
Since 1972 the Arbor Day Foundation is the largest nonprofit dedicated to planting trees. The ADF recommends gift trees for wedding favors, fundraisers, grand openings and as baby gifts. Planting a tree is a great way to honor or memorialize special occasions or the passing of a loved one.
Perhaps the best part of the gift suggestions above is that none of them will take up space in your closet or on your coffee table, yet they all send a caring and generous message to your friend or loved one. Sometimes the best gift is a gift for others who are truly in need. The other side benefit of the donated gift, or air gift, is that your gift recipient can also claim the tax deduction.
Mary Rayme - Mary Rayme is a graphic designer and arts educator with a BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore.
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