Gift Giving Guy

My parents made themselves easy to shop for this Christmas. At Thanksgiving, Mom encouraged us to make donations, not shopping mall runs. Both of my parents volunteer, helping people who are struggling in this tough economy. In fact, a recent American Red Cross survey found that 20 percent of Americans will reduce their charitable giving for the 2009 holidays. (American Red Cross fundraising is down an average of 25 percent this year.)

So if you’re still seeking last-minute holiday gifts, try what I did: JustGive.org. I found the right charity among 1.5 million organizations with a single search. I gave online and included a personal note. JustGive routes the donation in my parents’ names to their favorite charity and e-mails them my personal note. You decide whether you want to include the donation amount in the e-mail. (I did.) Ten minutes later, I’m done.

Not sure which charity to choose? JustGive created 12 giving collections that reflect the passions of many donors. Each collection features four charities working to advance the cause.

• Inspire Children and Change Their Lives
• Feed and Empower the Hungry
• Provide Mentors to Children
• Protect Animals and Prevent Cruelty
• Support Women of the World
• Create Peace for All
• Plant Trees
• Provide Shelter for Animals
• Create Homes and Jobs
• Save the Earth
• Respect our Elders
• Promote Human Rights

JustGive also offers the GiveNow Card, which allow the recipient to choose specific charities. Best of all, you can e-mail an GiveNow card right now. (While JustGive does offer gift cards via U.S. mail, the card won’t reach recipients in time for Christmas.)

I also added the suggested $5 donation to support the great work of JustGive: making charitable giving quick and simple.