By Anetta Nowosielska
In a consumer world propelled by ecommerce filled with endless possibilities, buying a sweater made in China or coffee mug featuring Santa’s sleigh for anyone on your holiday list feels a bit, well… old school. A mere cashmere scarf or a bottle of perfume from Saks most likely will no longer evoke shrieks and sighs, like it did back in the 90s. These days the most sought after presents contain more than just luxury products and enviable brands. Blame it on the universal trend of doing good (clearly Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt are its biggest culprits); in a recession stained world, gifting has become an aspired undertaking, where the actual present is as important as the story it tells.
Since sustainability, environment and such rank pretty high on our list of priorities, we would like to propose to take said holiday goodwill a step further. In lieu of paper-wrapped, CO2 emission loaded, possibly labored by Bangladeshi children trinkets, make donations in the name of your loved ones to noble, local charities, which need assistance to keep doing their part so we don’t have to (just joshin’ people). Behold the Benevolent Chart, a philanthropic gift guide custom tailored to personalities of those you hate shopping for anyway.
History Buff:
The Bridgehampton Historical Society – its latest money raising endeavor centers around the Nathaniel Rogers House, the deteriorated abode on the corner of Montauk Highway and Ocean Road. Once rejuvenated, the building will become a facility that will serve as the headquarters of the Bridgehampton Historical Society and as a cultural resource center for the community.
Animal Lover:
Star Foundation, Middle Island – this small but mighty organization focuses on animal protection and welfare. Its goal is to provide a safe haven for every injured or orphaned Long Island animal in need of medical care, rehabilitation, or humane euthanasia, and to return as many healthy animals as possible to their natural habitat.
Pious Giver:
The Lighthouse Mission – a Christian ministry, whose commitment is to feed the hungry and empower those living in poverty to live purpose filled lives. Their box trucks do food runs almost daily, delivering bags of food to several outreach locations throughout East End.
Pink Ribbon Supporters:
Strength for Life – a very active organization which aims to assist cancer patients through a community exercise program designed to enhance their recovery process. Strength for Life’s programs is offered to those in need regardless of location and financial limitations.
Theater Enthusiast:
Bay Street Theater — arguably East End’s most noted theatrical presence, BST is “an artistic haven for an extended family of artists and audience, while continuing to provide a gathering place to share in the unique collective theatrical experience.” Your money may well help the upcoming 2012 Into the Woods production.
Foodie:
Long Island Farm Bureau – if you love those farm stands (and who doesn’t) look no further than LIFB to channel your financial support. This organization protects and strengthens the local agricultural industry, which in turn delivers some of the best produce in the country.
Tree Huggers:
East Hampton Trails Preservation Society – this not-for-profit organization dedicated to the creation and protection of trails, greenbelts and open spaces has been doing good work for over 25 years. When not busy fighting it out with developers and pesky city administrators, EHTPS enables locals and visitors to get close to nature by conducting free hikes every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the year.
Feminist:
Long Island Women’s Agenda – this organizations based in Plainview provides a voice for women on issues, policies and programs affecting the lives of those living and working on Long Island.
Child Advocate:
Southampton Fresh Air Home – more than just a camp for physically challenged children, SFAH is a movement that encourages self-confidence and new skills and attitudes, to enable its campers to live more rewarding lives.
If we have still not managed to twist your arm to forgo gift hunting, remember this one important nugget: your donation is deductible as defined by IRS regulations. Unlike those UGG boots you plan to give your daughter, donation is the only gift that will give back.
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