One More Gift

The holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate our capacity for compassion and generosity. Family gatherings, parties, gifts, time spent together – all these express our love and appreciation for family and friends. Now is also the time to express ourselves at an even higher level, by sharing some of our resources with others.

Give to Children and Families


• St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a pediatric treatment and research facility focused on childhood cancers and other serious diseases. My mother favors St. Jude; it resonates with her because she lost a child to leukemia.
• One Laptop Per Child aims to empower poor children through education and technology. I spent many years as a member of a small educational software assocation that donated to this group.
• Meals on Wheels provides vital nutrition and safety checks to millions of seniors throughout the U.S. Any one of us may need them someday.
• Save the Children brings education, medical care, food, and emergency assistance to children in over 120 countries, including the United States. This kind of help is needed now more than ever.

Give to Animals and Nature


• The North Shore Animal League is the world's largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption agency. My late friend Ann, who introduced me to my husband, was a great animal lover, and this was her favorite charity.
• The Nature Conservancy pursues pragmatic, market-based solutions to conservation challenges. They work around the world to protect the land and water that supports life on earth.
• The World Wildlife Fund works to protect vulnerable places, species and communities worldwide, for the sake of human beings and all living things
• Valley Cats is the local rescue group where Hubby and I adopted our two cats. We’ve also helped them by fostering cats and kittens awaiting adoption. These people are incredibly dedicated.

If none of these is quite your cup of tea, see this list of top rated charities for inspiration.

Bonus: In the U.S., your charitable donation made before the end of the year also gives a little bit back to you in the form of a tax deduction!