Holiday shopping at non-profits

If you're looking for a way to keep the economy pumped up this holiday season without giving in to commercialization, why not look for meaningful gifts at non-profit organizations? End-of-year giving is as important to them as end-of-year shopping is to retail businesses -- and they're suffering just as much, with consequences for jobs, the environment, services for the needy and quality of life for us all.

What makes these gifts successful as gifts is matching up the work of the organization to the interests of the gift recipient.

For instance, I have nature-lovers in my circle, so one of the things I've done in the past is plant daffodils in Central Park in their honor. This year, I'm switching over to plant rainforest trees in Costa Rica through NRDC's rainforest restoration campaign. In both cases, the organizations send certificates in acknowledgment that are suitable for printing and framing.

For my daughter, a poetry-lover, I like to support the Academy of American Poets, whose wonderful website she frequents. A couple of years ago, I got her a gift membership, which came with a poetry t-shirt. This Hanukkah, I'm thinking I may adopt a poet for her. But I'm waffling -- it might be better to buy a book of poems, babydoll poetry t-shirt, necklace or other item from the group's poetry store. (Sophie, if you're reading this, please provide guidance!)

Also worth noting -- you generally get a tax deduction on these gifts, so you come out with a little something extra for yourself.