While you’re on the lookout for the perfect gifts for friends, family, and coworkers, why not make them even more special this year? By choosing gifts that give back, you can spread holiday cheer while supporting causes and communities that need it most. Here are 10 thoughtful ideas to spark your giving spirit this season:
1. Donate to a Charity on Someone’s Behalf
Instead of a material gift, donate to a cause close to the recipient’s heart. Whether it’s to support the arts , someone less fortunate than you, or an environmental nonprofit, your gift will make a lasting impact. Pair it with a thoughtful card explaining how their gift is helping others.
2. Shop Brands That Give Back
Support companies that prioritize giving. Many brands donate a portion of their profits to charitable causes. When you buy TOMS shoes, for example, every purchase helps provide shoes to someone in need, or shop Patagonia for sustainable, environmentally friendly gifts.
3. Buy Local and Support Small Businesses
Give a gift from a local artisan or small business. Not only will you find unique and personal items, but you’ll also be supporting your community’s economy. Farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and local boutiques are great places to start. In the greater Lynn area, check out Ravenstone Gifts or for the wine lover in your life, there’s Lucille’s Wine and Tasting Room.
4. Sponsor a Family in Need
Know a family that could use a little extra help this holiday season? If no one comes to mind, your church or local community group might know someone in need. Many nonprofits offer programs for giving essentials like groceries, clothing, and toys for children. Organizations like Globe Santa or Toys for Local Children in Somerville may interest you.
5. Plan an Experience That Benefits the Community
Rather than buying a material gift, organize an outing that gives back. Some ideas? A family volunteer day at a soup kitchen like My Brother’s Table, a donation-based yoga class or tickets to a local theater production. Sharing an experience makes memories and supports your local community.
6. Give the Gift of Time
For those who value quality time, offer to spend a day helping with a project or volunteering together for a cause they care about. Whether it’s painting a room, planting a garden, or spending a few hours with someone under the weather, this gift costs nothing but your time and effort.
7. Purchase Fair Trade Products
Instead of buying from major retailers, think about buying fair trade gifts – coffee, chocolate, or handmade crafts. When you support artisans and farmers that are paid fair wages and work under safe conditions, you’ll feel good knowing your purchase makes a meaningful difference. Not sure how to spot them? Keep an eye out for brands with Fair Trade Certified labels.
8. Gift a Membership to a Nonprofit
For the nature lover in your life, consider gifting a membership to a local botanical garden, national park, or wildlife conservation organization. These memberships often come with perks like free admission, newsletters, and invitations to special events. There’s even a National Park Senior Lifetime Pass!
9. Adopt an Animal Symbolically
Many wildlife organizations allow you to “adopt” an animal for someone. This symbolic adoption helps fund conservation efforts and comes with fun perks like a plush toy or certificate. Perfect for kids or animal enthusiasts! You can find a cool list of animals to adopt here.
10. Create a DIY Gift That Gives Back
Handmade gifts can be both heartfelt and impactful. Knit scarves for a homeless shelter, bake cookies for a charity bake sale, or make a few ornaments and donate proceeds to a local cause. You’ll be giving twice—the gift itself and the good it brings.
At Community Credit Union, we believe in giving back, in building stronger communities, and that every small act of kindness adds up. So, as you make your holiday shopping list, consider how your gifts can bring joy to loved ones – and to the world around you.
Ready to make a difference? The team at CCU is dedicated to serving the people, businesses, and families of Lynn, Peabody, Somerville, and the surrounding areas, including you and yours.
If you’d like to make your money work better in 2025 and make less emotional financial decisions, we’d love to help. Call us 800-862-7009 to set up a time to chat or visit one of our branches. Become a Community Credit Union member today and live the life you deserve.