2010 Gift Giving Guide: Gifts that Give Back

DailyCandy featured 22 Gifts that Give Back -that I thought I would share and expand on. Two that they featured that grabbed my attention were the 826 stores and Altruette.

826 National is a family of eight nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping students, ages 6-18, with expository and creative writing. They have different themed stores that sell a variety of unusual and creative items.

At the 826 National Store they have books of letters written by kids to the President and First Lady and this adorable "Future Author" shirt for kids (Don't you just love this kid's expression?)

They have a pirate store as well (826 Valencia) that sells a variety of items including the "Cannons don't sink ships, Pirates with cannons sink ships" t-shirt.

But really all the stores are worth checking out.

Altruette has some great charms that all go to different charities. The cupcake charm goes to CancerCare for Kids and the cute Honeybee (my favorite) goes to the Honey Bee Research Fund. So go browse through the three pages of charity charms. You might find one that is perfect for someone - or you might find a cause that you really would like to help out.

Your gift to someone can help keep the Ford's Theatre going strong by buying a personalized brick for the sidewalk in front of the theatre. Good for any history / Ab Lincoln buffs.

And here is one of my favorites. For anyone with a new little one - this Little Squirt Babysuit and Hat from Uncommon Goods would make a great gift. The little whale tale on the butt is just precious! It's on sale right now - and some of the proceeds go towards the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation.

So enjoy your Christmas shopping - hope you find a gift that gives back!