| The Most Important Gift Catalog |
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| Wednesday, 07 December 2005 | |
As the holiday season swings into full gear, it only seems fitting to list what we believe
might be the best gift choices. While our favorite gift catalog isn't as extravagant as Neiman
Marcus, the gifts are unique and less expensive. More important, these gifts can make a world of
difference. To make it even easier, you don't have to take delivery.
The catalog I'm referring to is from Heifer
International, which is our featured charity. This 60-year-old charity produces a unique gift
catalog. They say it's
the most important gift catalog in the world. Perhaps, some of the gift items will
illustrate:
Some of you are probably saying, well the trees might work in the back by the patio. You're correct except you're not meant to be the recipient. What this catalog allows you to do is do buy one of these items for someone in need that is served by a Heifer International project. Currently, there are over 400 Heifer International projects in 50 countries ranging from the Americas to Zimbabwe. Rather than buying someone a cup of milk, you're buying him or her a cow that has lasting benefits. The concept behind Heifer is to give sustainable gifts that are beneficial to the recipients and community. The recipient is required to pass along the gift and training. As the example, you buy a flock of chicks for someone and it provides a food source and an income source. The recipient is allowed to sell or barter their excess eggs for income, medicine and other necessities. They are also required to give some new chicks to people in the community, which helps others become self-reliant and continue the process. The recipient becomes a donor. Your cost for the chicks - $20. And yes, you get a tax deduction and email receipt. Did you know that after 6 months, a chicken could lay 200 eggs a year? You can even give a gift on behalf of someone else. Several years ago, the mother of a co-worker died. I had only met the mother once, but she struck as someone that would appreciate such a gift. Instead of sending flowers, I bought a tree. On another occasion I bought a goat on behalf of a group of friends who had done some charity work. Another item I appreciate about this charity is their privacy policy. They cover everything on how to give anonymously to opting out from mailings. It was nice to see the options laid out without the legalese you often see. If you're not sure what you or anyone else wants, give this catalog a try. You may not find the perfect gift, but at least you'll see that certain gifts can make a world of difference. Additional Resources Heifer Home Page Heifer Gift Catalog Page Charity Navigator Profile BBB Wise Giving Alliance Page Related Articles |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 07 December 2005 ) |
