...and even for those who do not, a donation to a non-profit organization may be the perfect gift. This year I gave my grandniece and two grandnephews a symbolic adoption of an endangered animal.
World Wildlife Fund offers adoptions of 100 different species. The recipient gets an adoption certificate and a 12" plush animal in a gift box. I like this idea because the kids are young enough to still enjoy a tangible gift to open but old enough to understand that they are helping a cause.For the grownups in the family, I will make donations in their name as we have done for the past few years. Favorite charities are American Red Cross, Kiva, Heifer International, Habitat for Humanity, the Idaho Humane Society, Second Harvest Food Bank, and Idaho Horse Rescue. Family members are on board with this plan, it makes Christmas shopping easier, plus I get a tax deduction... so it's win-win.
Wishing everyone at SA a very Merry Christmas! May you make memories with those you love.
December 25th, 2011 at 02:37 am 1324780629
December 25th, 2011 at 02:18 pm 1324822694
I LOVE doing donations in lieu of gifts - most of my family is on board which makes it nice.
December 29th, 2011 at 04:50 pm 1325177433
Fortunately, in my family we discuss the process and everyone selects a favorite charity (or two) for that year. Every so often, the charity or non-profit isn't one I would choose for myself but I still donate because it was a request. We talk about it BEFORE so there aren't hurt feelings or disappointments later.
Personally, I would prefer to have a charity or non-profit supported, even if it isn't one of MY favorites, rather than getting another useless gadget someone thinks I must have or an ugly sweater I will never wear.
BTW, I loved getting a pic of grandniece and grandnephew holding their WWF "adopted" animals. My niece said it was a favorite gift... even more than the UGG boots from their grandma.