If you want your gift spending to carry out the true meaning of the holidays, here are a few suggestions where your buck goes an extra step to a good cause.

GIFTED

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Courtesy GIFTED

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Gifted is the market branch of the LA-based nonprofit FreeFrom which helps survivors of intimate partner violence establish financial independence.

Survivors work with FreeFrom to create and sell their own products like seasonal self-care sets of scented candles, artisanal soaps, and relaxing bath teas. 

You can also find adorable, hand-made holiday cards to gift or send yourself.

The do-gooder’s bonus: Proceeds help survivors of abuse create their own paths to finding safety, stability, and financial confidence.

MADE by DWC

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Courtesy MADE by DWC

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MADE is run by the Downtown Women’s Center to create employment opportunities and job training for women who have experienced homelessness.

They have a storefront boutique and cafe where you can buy apparel, resale items, and homegoods like this Golden State Candle and Bath Salt gift set.

The do-gooder’s bonus: you support formerly unhoused women build critical work experience and support a shelter that’s in high demand.

Homeboy Industries

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Courtesy Homeboy Industries

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Father Greg Boyle’s nonprofit has been a longstanding L.A. institution working with formerly incarcerated people and ex-gang members to rebuild their lives.

Between the HomeGirl Cafe and the rest of the social enterprise wing of the organization, there are plenty of gift choices.

Their merchandise is extra cute, like this personalized stocking, aprons, and cool clothing. They also sell delicious baked goods available online and for in-person pick-up.

The do-gooder’s bonus: your money goes to job training and other services to support community members working to turn their lives around. Such programs are also proven to lower prison recidivism rates.

The Time Travel Mart

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Courtesy Time Travel Mart

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The Echo Park and Mar Vista storefronts commit to a very charming bit with products aimed at so-called “time travelers.” You’ll find a range of whimsical items ranging from dinosaur paraphernalia to robot accessories.

In-person and online sales support 826LA, a non-profit focused on writing and literacy for local kids aged 6 to 18 through workshops, tutoring, and publishing student books (also available for purchase).

There are more expensive options like a floating moon lamp but I think it's also a great source for stocking stuffer or smaller gifts, especially for those with a dark sense of humor like these Library of Alexandria Matches

The do-gooder’s bonus: help kids build creative skills and academic confidence through local reading and writing programs.

The Theodore Payne Foundation

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Courtesy The Theodore Payne Foundation

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Theodore Payne is dedicated to educating the public about the power of native plants for environmental sustainability and ecological health. They also host the delightful seasonal California Wildflower Hotline where you can call in every week to find the best blooms.

Shop online or visit their site which includes a full service plant nursery in Sun Valley. You can gift plants or seeds to the green-thumb in your life, in addition to plant themed items like socks and stickers, and a selection of books.

This illustrated guide called the California Field Atlas is a good pick for a hiker or naturalist close to your heart.

The do-gooder’s bonus: help the protection and rebuilding of ecological habitats by fostering the planting of indigenous plants.

Parks Project

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Courtesy The Parks Project

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Starting out with volunteering in the Santa Monica mountains, the Parks Project is now is a global effort to raise money to protect parklands and open access for more people to enjoy the outdoors.

They offer a range of products, all nature and National Parks themed, like calendars, a camping chair, and this stylish National Parks Brass French Press.

The do-gooder’s bonus: help preserve more pristine parks for today and future generations.