Gaiam has an excellent piece today on Christmas gifts that give back. I’ve rehashed it abit for you below.

1.) Give the gift of sustenance - Kiva is a micro loan organization that pairs people up and allows for the average joe and jane to become a lender. A lender who helps people in developing countries to start micro businesses and generally to get a leg up. Lending is done in small amounts and the funds usually go toward funding some small piece of business equipment or supplies. The recipients pay back the amount borrowed through a predetermined agreement.

Instead of a J Crew gift certificate this year, why not give someone a gift certificate to Kiva who can then turn around and help someone feed their entire family through a small micro loan.

2.) Shop responsibly - There are quite a good number of socially responsible retailers that make shopping both fun and an experience that gives back. In the Gaiam article, vegan cosmetic company PeaceKeepers is mentioned, and aside from the animal friendly cosmetics, this company also gives back. It gives back all after tax profits and allocates it to womens and human rights organizations. You can also support fair trade by purchasing fair trade items. And or

3.) Give the gift of your time - Short on cash this year? No worries, as you can still give of yourself. No money is needed, just your time. Help out at the local pantry, volunteer at your school, donate gently used clothing, shoes, toys, and other items. Many shelters in your area will need extra hands to help with the homeless this Christmas. And please don’t forget about the animal shelters as well. Many dogs and cats need love too during this cold time of year.

4.) Gift In Kind - Send someone a gift certificate to a local clinic or donate an amount in honor of someone at your local library or other in kind gift idea.

5.) Gift of an animal - Heifer International is an organization which allows you to buy an animal for a family in dire need who will in turn use this animal to feed its family. No, they don’t eat the animal, they use the animal in other ways. For example, a cow would be used for milk and a goat for cheese, etc.

6.) Breast cancer research stamps - these stamps cost more, but the extra that you pay goes to fund breast cancer research.

Gaiam did a fantastic job of coming up with this list of Christmas gifts that give back. Kudos to them.

via Gaiam