Though the economy is causing many to scale back on holiday spending this year, we’ve noticed people are looking into their hearts — not just their wallets — when picking out just the right gift.

Based on the idea “’Tis better to give than to receive,” TisBest allows you to purchase gift cards that the recipient can use toward a charity of his or her choice, from a list of more than 200 nonprofits. Either upload your own photo or choose an image (themes include holiday, environmental and animals), then choose a denomination and write a personalized message. The recipient enters a code from the card and chooses from a list that includes organizations for animal causes, environmental issues, art and culture, education, health, women’s issues, hunger, homelessness and more. (See “Giving the Gift of Giving” in VIV’s Exclusive Content section for more charity gift ideas.)

If your pockets are truly empty this year, offer the gift of your time and send someone an e-card from No Christmas Gifts This Year. Customize your message with the promise of a future shared activity, such as playing at the park, cultivating a new skill, cooking a meal, learning a magic trick or volunteering for a charity — or fill in the blank with your own idea. Write a personal message and then select a background color and image, such as a present on strike or Santa wagging a finger. (To clarify, it’s his index finger — you don’t want to end up on Santa’s naughty list by sending someone the wrong kind of sentiment!)

Would you rather someone on a budget give you a charity gift or some of his or her time? If you’re spending less this holiday season, are you considering gift alternatives?

Tags: Christmas and holiday season, e-card, Gift, Giving, Human Interest, Money, personal finance, Personal life, Santa Claus, Seasons, Social Issues