The Gift of Giving Twice: Feel-Good Presents that Make a Difference
Let’s face it, traditional gifts can sometimes feel a bit… impersonal. A tie they’ll never wear, a scented candle that clashes with their decor – sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that come with a story. Gifts that give back tell a story of shared values, of aligning your thoughtfulness with a cause close to your recipient’s heart (or yours!).
The Rise of Conscious Consumers
We’re all becoming more mindful of the impact our choices have on the world. We want to know where our clothes are made, what ingredients are in our food, and how our purchases might affect the environment. This extends to gift-giving as well. Millennials, in particular, are driving the force behind conscious consumerism. A [Cone Communications study]([invalid URL removed] 2017-millennial-essentials-report) found that 90% of millennials expect companies to support social or environmental issues.
Thankfully, there’s a growing market of companies that align with these values. These businesses are creating exceptional products while giving back through charitable donations or sustainable practices. So, how can you find the perfect gift that gives back?
Finding the Perfect Gift with Purpose
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
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Know Your Recipient (and Their Cause): A little thought goes a long way. Consider what your recipient cares about – animal welfare, environmental protection, education? Once you know their passion, you can narrow down your search to companies that support those causes.
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Think Empowerment: There are fantastic companies that create beautiful products while providing employment opportunities to underprivileged communities around the world. From handbags made by artisans in developing countries to jewelry handcrafted by survivors of human trafficking, your gift can empower individuals and promote fair trade.
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Sustainable Style: Many companies are focusing on eco-friendly materials and responsible production methods. Look for gifts made from recycled materials, organic cotton, or sustainably sourced wood. These gifts not only look great, but they minimize environmental impact.
Gift Ideas to Spark Joy and Make a Difference
Now that you know what to look for, let’s explore some incredible companies offering gifts that give back:
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For the Fashionista with a Cause: The Empowerment Plan offers a stunning selection of ethically-made handbags and accessories. Each purchase provides employment and education opportunities for women in India.
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The Eco-Conscious Foodie: Love Real sets a new standard for delicious and sustainable snacking. Their bars are made from organic, non-GMO ingredients, and a portion of every sale goes towards fighting hunger and food insecurity.
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The Techie Who Wants to Give Back: TOMS offers a wide variety of tech accessories like phone cases and charging cables. They’re known for their one-for-one model, where for every product purchased, they donate a new pair of shoes to a child in need.
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The Homebody who Loves Sustainability: Beeswax candles are a beautiful and eco-friendly way to add ambiance to any home. Beekeeper’s Naturals offers gorgeous beeswax candles, and they’re committed to sustainable beekeeping practices.
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The Pet Parent with a Heart: Plato Pet Treats creates delicious and healthy treats for your furry friend. They partner with animal shelters across the country, donating a portion of their proceeds to help homeless pets find loving homes.
Gifts that Give Back: More Than Just a Present
These are just a few examples, and with a little research, you can find countless companies creating meaningful gifts that give back. The beauty of these gifts lies in the story they tell. When you give a present that supports a cause, you’re not just giving a product; you’re giving hope, opportunity, and a chance to make a positive difference.
So, embrace the joy of giving twice. Find a gift that reflects your values and the values of your recipient. Because sometimes, the most meaningful presents are the ones that come with a ripple effect of positive change.
Bonus Tip: Many companies offering gifts that give back allow you to include a personalized message with your gift. This adds a heartfelt touch and lets your recipient know exactly what their gift represents.