Are you looking for unique and meaningful gifts this holiday season? Most gift guides are filled with the latest new gadgets, fashion trends, and fad toys that will quickly lose their luster and become outdated. You want your gift to show how much you care while also serving a worthwhile purpose. Consider these thoughtful, lasting gifts that also support your local non-profit!

Make a Donation in Their Name

A simple, yet impactful option for a sincere holiday gift is a donation in your friend or loved one’s name to a charity that aligns with their passions and values.

Maybe your loved one is a lifelong animal lover — opt for a donation in their name to the local pet rescue. Do you have a friend who loves the arts? Donate in their name to an organization that provides free art supplies to after-school programs. Perhaps someone you care about is struggling with a medical diagnosis or has a family member who is; find an organization that spreads awareness or conducts research on their illness.

By donating to a charity in someone’s name, you turn the struggle of finding the perfect physical present into an easy, yet powerful act of giving.

Create Lasting Recognition in Their Honor

When creating a compassionate holiday gift guide, consider gifting a timeless tribute in someone’s honor. This could look like a custom engraving on a plaque or brick, or “adopting” an honorary road, animal or building in someone’s name.

Many non-profit organizations have opportunities available to purchase a tribute for a friend or loved one. Tribute giving is easy to complete, usually online via a credit or debit card or by mailing in a donation. This gift can be extra special, as there is still a physical component to the gift.

The Wisconsin Lions Foundation has a Wall of Honor designed to recognize Clubs, businesses, members, or loved ones for their support of the Wisconsin Lions Foundation. By donating $500 to the Wisconsin Lions Foundation’s Building Fund, you can ensure that your special someone’s legacy will be forever remembered as a Friend of the Foundation. This thoughtful gift includes two lines of engraving on a solid oak block, a beautiful certificate, and a lasting place in the Wisconsin Lions Foundation Administration building. You can learn more about this opportunity on our Wall of Honor page, or by contacting the Wisconsin Lions Foundation office at 715-677-4969.

Organize a Volunteering Day or Attend an Event Together

There is a saying that goes something like, “Experiences lead to greater happiness than material possessions.” Organizing an experience for a friend or loved one is a great way to bond while making memories. Gifting a fully-planned volunteer day or attending a local non-profit event is an excellent way to spend quality time with them and also contribute to a cause they love.
Non-profits are always looking for more volunteers with projects or assistance with fundraisers. Additionally, some non-profits offer extravagant experiences for purchase, such as galas, black-tie events, carnivals, dance marathons, or meeting celebrities. Supporting a cause your loved one is passionate about while also making fun memories to last a lifetime is a perfect gift!

To view the Wisconsin Lion Foundation’s current events and fundraising opportunities, visit our Events page and check out more ways to donate.