Life

9 Gifts That Give Back & Make A Difference During The Holidays

by Autumn Jones

Everyone likes a good deal during the holidays, and with events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and month long holiday sales, it's easy to get caught up in the rush of getting all the things on our list at prices that make our wallet happy. Although there is nothing wrong with keeping your seasonal shopping within a budget, you may forget there are ways our purchases can make a difference. With tons of online retailers doing good with their profits, this year it is easier than ever to give gifts that give back.

There is something rewarding about knowing the money you spend on holiday gifts can go to serve a greater good. With organizations offering a wide variety of items that empower women, give girls a chance at an education, and help to save the environment, a simple journal becomes so much more than a place to jot down thoughts. That journal you give your sister can become an opportunity for a person on the other side of the globe, and a chance to rise above conditions they may have been stuck in if it wasn't for the organizations that help them sell their products to a global community of shoppers.

Before checking everyone and everything off your shopping list this year, consider one of these nine gifts that give back, because your purchases might change a life.

1

Felt Barnyard Puppet Bag

Kids will love playing with this felt barnyard puppet bag ($24) from Global Goods Partners, who help women artisans in developing countries to connect with a worldwide market of buyers.

2

Foster Love Denik Journal

Purchase this "Foster Love" journal ($13) from Sevenly, and 7 percent of the money will be donated to their charity of the week.

3

Globe Tee

Buy this women's globe tee ($33), you will be helping Sundara empower Indian women who have escaped the sex slave industry and are building new lives.

4

Minnow Complete Cruiser Skateboard

Bureo makes products such as this minnow complete cruiser skateboard ($149) from recycled fishing nets in an effort to save the ocean from discarded fishing gear.

5

Twister Crayons

Purchasing these twister crayons ($8) — or any Yoobi product — means in classroom in need will receive the same product.

6

Azeb Wallet

Gifting someone with this Azeb wallet ($64) will help provide the Ethiopian women who make them with economic independence.

7

Maya Hamsa Tote

Every time you toss this Maya Hamsa tote ($70) over your shoulder, you will be reminded that Bloom & Give donates 50 percent of their profits to girls education programs in India.

8

American Ale Beard Balm

Gift you guy with Society B's American Ale beard balm ($22), and 10 percent of the profits go to the company's chosen charity of the week.

9

Holiday Candles

The women who make Thistle Farms' products, like these holiday candle ($20), are all survivors of prostitution and addiction. Buying these items keep them empowered and employed.