Yesterday I talked about a few gift ideas, but if you are able to put your relatives and friends under the tree, you may want to consider other options… like putting them in stockings. Plus, you may want to give charitably in lieu of giving gifts. So today, I’ll talk about 5 organizations that would be good options. These are obviously five out of many worthy organizations, but you have to narrow it down at some point.
As they say on their site, “Kiva is the world’s first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend to unique entrepreneurs around the globe.” For $25 you can help out a woman in Peru to buy fertilizer for her pea and corn crops or you can lend to a man who needs car maintenance for his taxi business. And the repayment on these loans is at 98%. Not bad! And gift certificates make great stocking stuffers (convenient since your friends and family are already there)!
“Love146 works toward the abolition of child sex slavery and exploitation through prevention and aftercare solutions, and contributing to a growing abolition movement.” This great organization helps some of those most vulnerable. It’s a great place to give, and no need to even have a stocking. They have fabulous holiday e-cards that explain to your friend or family the donation made in their honor.
“Community LINC provides transitional housing for homeless families in the Kansas City area. Our mission is to develop self-sufficient families and communities.” Tenants go through an application process. Once admitted, they are given budget and life-skills training, counseling and children’s programs. With 83% of the graduates continuing to live independently, you can be sure that your money is being used well.
When asked why I love my church, one of the reasons I give is that our church places a priority on helping the community and the world. As a part of the United Methodist denomination, we support the United Methodist Committee on Relief. Their mission - “grounded in the teachings of Jesus, is to alleviate human suffering—whether caused by war, conflict or natural disaster, with open hearts and minds to all people.” Another thing that I love is that 100% of the money donated goes directly to the program you designate, not overhead costs.
We have three incredible cats, and all three came from rescue shelters. Franny had previously been abandoned and Zoey was saved by a non-kill shelter on the day he was supposed to be euthanized. I can’t imagine our lives without them. One of the best run shelters is the Lawrence Humane Society. It helps provide homes for cute, little critters like Bessy.
If these aren’t what you’re looking for, you can always give to the Janelle Vacation Fund. Give, and give generously.