With winter coming, and lots of birthdays and graduations coming up, it’s a great time to indulge in some online shopping when the weather is bad. In keeping with the theme of Girls Gone Giving, we’re highlighting cool friendship gifts that include donations to favorite charities so you can shop the change! And since the best presents are ones that show people that you both love them and know them, we’re spotlighting a range of causes, so you can pick the best match.
Alex and Ani
I am an Alex and Ani fanatic. I stack at least four of these fun bangles on my wrist at all times and mix and match them with all sorts of different bracelets and watches. When the Charity by Design collection was first introduced, I fell in love with the Stand Up to Cancer charm as a way to honor my mom and grandmother while directing important resources to fight the disease. The collection has since grown to 44 different gorgeous bracelets, all supporting local and national charities.
With each bangle sold, 20% of proceeds go to organizations and campaigns such as ASPCA, Special Olympics, American Cancer Society, and Alex’s Lemonade Stand. Shop now.
TOMS
TOMS is one of the most charitable and well-known organizations built on the concept of “One for One.” The company began as TOMS Shoes in 2006 and with every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS would donate one pair to a person in need. Since then, the company has expanded to produce eyewear and, most recently, coffee. Similar to one for one shoes, every time a pair of glasses is purchased, TOMS restores the eyesight of one person. Every time a bag of coffee is purchased, TOMS provides a week’s supply of water to one person.
The entire selection of shoes, glasses, and coffee can be found on their website.
Bravelets
These stylish bracelets are the perfect symbol of strength, hope, and bravery. Sooo incredibly cool! You can also easily create your own Brave Page to fundraise for a cause.
The Original Rope is priced perfectly for gifts.
Out of Print
All of the amazing coverage in the past year on women and education has spotlighted the dearth of resources, including books, in schools across the globe. One organization addressing this issue in a unique and awesome way is Out of Print, a company that creates comfortable and stylish t-shirts featuring old covers of classic books. In addition to the cool, vintage style, the shirts can become great conversation pieces highlighting the cause of international literacy. With each shirt sold, Out of Print donates a book to a community in need. A tee with your friend’s favorite book on the front can serve as a fun, unique gift for any occasion.
Skyline Socks
These goofy midcalfs will appeal to your sportier friends. What better way to show your city some love then by wearing its notorious skyline on your ankles? For every pair of socks purchased, Skyline Socks donates one pair to a neighbor in need.