Megan and Chris

Hey all,

Just wanted to pass on my social action promotion for the month (semester, year, whatever).

Here is a list of web sites to think about when you’re doing Christmas shopping this year. How many times have we had no idea what to get someone, but bought them something useless anyway just because we’re expected to give and receive material things. The guest speaker at a conference I went to earlier this month said that in 2002, Canadians spent $18 million on gifts, and I’m sure that number goes up every year. There are so many people around the world who need that kind of money more than we need all those possessions and gifts. With organizations like Oxfam and Global Giving, we can still ‘give gifts’, but the benefits are to women, children, men and communities around the world.

I think this is a fantastic idea for all of us to give a few gifts like these this year… and if any of you are considering getting me a present, I highly recommend the ‘Women and Girls‘ tab at Global Giving… or the Women’s Voices section at Oxfam Unwrapped, but there’s less variety there.

Be the change you wish to see in the world!
Global Giving – Donations for Grassroots Projects and Microfinance
OxFam Unwrapped
KIVA – Kiva makes micro loans to people in developing countries.
Chalice – another Canadian organization that provides agicultural and educational support.

There are lots more!!

Or, for awesome material gifts, check out the Hunger Site’s fair trade gifts.

Happy less-than-one-month-til-Christmas!
–
Megan