The Perfect Holiday Gift
If you're like me, there are a lot of people on your holiday gift list who really don't need or even want more stuff. You may also be in a financial situation where you would love to give many people a gift, but can only spend a small amount on each person and are unsure how to make the most impact. Or it's simply 4 days into Hanukah and a few days before Christmas and you still don't have something for that aunt you only see once a year. In any of these cases, why not donate to an organization in their name?
We are all, by now, familiar with and other end-of-year campaigns run by large and small non-profits alike. These are important ways for organizations to meet their fundraising goals before the clock runs out, and in too many cases, to ensure they can keep the lights on come January. For so many non-profits doing amazing work, that $25 you'd otherwise spend on a Starbucks gift card would go a long way...and mean a lot more to the recipient.
As I thought about the organizations to whom I plan to donate on behalf of loved ones, I realized that not everyone is aware of so many amazing organizations that don't often make the headlines. So I thought I'd compile a list of some suggestions derived from hundreds of conversations, conference presentations, articles, and proposals I've had the pleasure to have/attend/read in the past few years. If one of these strikes you as a great fit, please donate! If not, please go forth and find one that does-- I promise, an amazing organization is only a Google search away.
Best for folks in real estate who genuinely love finding/building people new homes; social justice warriors passionate about inequitable climate impacts; ER nurses who treat far too many people experiencing preventable asthma attacks; teachers trying to teach kids who have lead poisoning:
Best for self-proclaimed foodies; folks working in the restaurant industry; your cousin who recently volunteered on a farm and loved it; anyone who deeply understands the joy and comfort of good food:
Best for people who have lost a loved one to or are struggling themselves with suicidal ideation or mental illness; overburdened school counselors; faith-based leaders; your friend who decided to go back to school for their MSW after deciding law really isn't for them:
Best for expecting parents; doulas and midwives; folks who are passionate about Black and Brown women's health and the unacceptable health disparities between them and white folks:
领英推荐
Best for unapologetic feminists; people with uteruses; people who genuinely care about people with uteruses:
Best for computer scientists, data analysts and software engineers; your father who always buys the newest gadget so you don't know what to get him for Christmas; people who believe technology can be used for good, not just evil:
Best for your mother-in-law with whom you avoid all remotely political topics; your sibling who isn't really interested in anything except TikTok (yet); people who are generally supportive of social services programs but without specific passions; your colleague who is a Veteran but about whom you don't know much else:
...and there are so many more topics and organizations to support. Add your own recommendations and spread the word!
Purpose-Driven, Global C-Suite Executive | Insight-Led Growth Strategist | Results-Oriented & Relational People Leader & Partner | Innovative, Digital Brand Marketer | Driver of Operational Excellence & Performance
2 年Always love your posts, Rachel. This one really resonates with me this year as I pondered through gifts for my children, extended family, friends and co-workers. I’d love for Habitat for Humanity to make your recommended list next year! That said - so many worthy causes, organizations and people in need. We all need to share the wealth.
Realistic Optimist
2 年This is brilliant. Thank you.