Support a Cause, Give a Gift
Thursday, December 10th, 2009
The Season For Giving rings even truer this year with so many people, pets, families and not-for-profit organizations in need. Sure, we feel warm and fuzzy when people make donations in our names but, if you’re contemplating material gift purchases for loved ones this season, why not consider ones that give back to a cause that you believe in, as well? Gifts such as these abound!
Of course, nearest and dearest to my heart are the ones that help animals, including my series of Brandy and Val books and toys. Since most of the gifts given out during the Holidays go to kids, these books fit the bill as they help animal sanctuaries throughout the U.S. with 100% of profits from Brandy and Val’s Special Story being donated to the rescue Brandy and Val were adopted from, Fortunate Pooches and Lab Rescue. While we’re on the subject of books, Happy Tails Books aims to donate 20-25% of their net proceeds to animal welfare groups through the sale of books about adopted/rescued dogs. What’s cool about their books is that they’re breed specific and they’re comprised of stories submitted by the guardians of the pets that were saved. Help Save A Stray’s Shop offers t-shirts, tote bags, doggie bandannas and more and YOU get to select where your donation goes from over the two dozen animal shelters they have listed on their site.
In no particular order, here are a few other unique gift ideas and sites that I’ve come across that help support our furry friends: Laughing Dog Art Studio creates pet portraits with a donation made to the animal shelter of your choice; The Dog Lover’s Wine Club of Carivintas Winery support a variety of animal rescues. Wine selections can be chosen that support dogs, cats and horses! Silver Bean Coffee sells a special blend that supports one of our favorite animal sanctuaries, Best Friends
I was even surprised to see how many Yahoo Groups there were that held discussions about gifts that give back to charity and My Shopping Connection has a section on gifts that give back to charities. Brandy and Val made that list! Finally, most rescue organizations have a myriad of gifts bearing their own logos, books etc. that support their causes and there are several companies such as Giftback.com contribute a back to a variety of charitable organizations with every purchase.
HAPPY SHOPPING!
