VIV Says: Blog

Fifteen percent of the profits from this hand-knotted genuine pearl necklace ($45) goes to UNICEF.

Though shopping options for beautiful and unique global gifts abound, we always feel happier about purchases that give back. We perused the UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) catalog and website for gifts, including toys, home accessories, ornaments, jewelry, clothing and holiday cards. Fifteen percent of catalog and Internet sales go toward health care, clean water, emergency relief, nutrition and education for children worldwide. A small purchase can make a big difference — according to the UNICEF catalog, the percentage of proceeds donated from a 12-pack of cards is enough to help 27 children battle dehydration with oral rehydration salts.

Christmas and Hanukkah cards include a deer and snow scene ($10) and a watercolor menorah ($10). Grammy Award winner Celine Dion lends her vocals to holiday cards ($4.99 each) that play music when opened. Tree decorations include Indian beaded ornaments ($15) and Peruvian gourd ornaments ($22), while items that can be enjoyed year-round include a Pixiu bank ($15), a zebra-pattern bangle ($10), a pearl necklace with charm ($45) and black dragon candlestick ($30). UNICEF’s gifts for children not only benefit kids around the world, but also teach the young recipients how to use chopsticks ($10) or several words of French, German, Italian and Spanish with the All About Language Dial-A-Word ($10). To wrap your gifts, there’s the option of the UNICEF eco-friendly reusable gift bags ($3.50–$5).

If someone on your list seems to have everything, check out UNICEF’s Inspired Gifts. The program allows you to purchase items such as blankets and mosquito nets that are then shipped directly to a country in need. Choices include seven units of local-language books ($26.25), a school-in-a-box kit ($257.45), a first-aid kit ($25.46), a bicycle for health workers ($57.50) and therapeutic milk ($24.75). After selecting a gift, then choose a gift card that will be sent to the recipient.

Helping children worldwide sounds like the basis for great gifts. Plus, we like that you know exactly how you’re contributing with Inspired Gifts. For more philanthropic gift ideas, check out our “Shopping for Change” story in the latest issue! Are you planning to give charity-related presents this year?