Consider the White Envelope Project this year instead
There are times that a gift just is not right. I have experienced those times, and I think if everyone were to be honest, they do too. We all do. You want to get that perfect something more, and the person that you are searching for has absolutely everything in the world. Or conversely, even if they do not have everything, they do not want or need another material possession.
There are times that material things just are not right. Those are the times that you might consider the White Envelope Project.
The White Envelope Project, told first in 1982 by Women’s Day magazine of all people, is a feelgood project whereby in place of purchasing something for your gift recipient, you take action in their name.
In other words, you do something. You get up and you do something in their honor. You build something, help someone, donate something, take action, make a stand, do something do something DO SOMETHING. Then, when Christmas comes around, instead of handing them yet another automatic pot stirrer or singing bass fish (!!!), you give them the simple white envelope.
In the envelope is a letter, written by you, wherein you describe and detail exactly what you chose to do in their name. You tell them why you chose it and what it meant to you. You tell them whatever you want. Tell them how it moved you and why you thought of them. Tell them how it changed you and why it made you both richer for the experience. Tell them whatever you want.
There are a bazillion yarns told of the worst Christmas present received ever. Why waste money? I really get up on a soapbox about this. The whole point of Christmas giving to me is to show people how we feel about them. I really try not to gift at Christmas out of a reciprocal obligation. If we are giving a present out of obligation, really, why should we bother in the first place?
The wonderful thing about the White Envelope Project website is the all encompassing help it can give you. Yes, it gives you an entire catalog of charities from which to choose if you are at a loss for a place to donate or work. But far beyond that, the White Envelope Project helps you expand your charitable giving horizons. What do I mean?
First, they outline the three easy steps to giving:
- 1. Find the Right Gift
When you decide to “give something different,” consider the recipient of your gift and the occasion. Find a gift that is relevant and meaningful to them. Everyone has a heart-string to tug on and something that they are really passionate about. Browse this catalog for ideas or find a project in your own community. If you’re still not sure what to get, purchase a Giving Certificate to allow the recipient to choose a charity on their own.
- 2. Carry Out Your Plan
Next, determine how you will give and carry out your plan. Are you simply making a donation or does your project require more planning? Share your idea with family members and friends and challenge them to get involved as well. Always remember to ask for help when you need it. If you donate through The White Envelope Project, we can handle all of the details and follow-up for you.
- 3. Share Your Gift
Once you have “given something different,” share your gift with the recipient. A simple letter or card telling what you have done in their honor will have tremendous impact. Let them know how much they mean to you and how you felt that giving to others in need was a wonderful way to honor them. Focus on the impact of your actions instead of the dollars involved or sacrifices you had to make. Don’t expect anything in return, and don’t make the letter about you instead of them.
Second, if you cannot think of a particular project, the website gives you a number of project ideas, both financial opportunities and volunteer opportunities.
Finally, if you get stuck on how to write your letter telling your recipients of what you did for their gift and why, the White Envelops Project website has a number of example letters, plus they have an option where they will write the letter for you!
I look around at my home and know that I have. so. many. material. things. More material things than any one person really needs in life. Sure, there are more things I would love to have because I am an imperfect human who falls slave to commercialism. But realistically, I know in my heart that I need nothing else in life. Everything at this point in my life from here on out is completely gravy. I have more food and shelter and transportation than I will probably ever be able to use. Of course, those things could change in a moment, with any natural disaster, but I recognize how lucky I am in this world.
How many of your gift recipients are in the same boat? Do they really need another material possession?
How many times during the Christmas season do we search and stress looking for that one last gift for cousin Susie or brother Bob? Would the White Envelope Project fit the bill instead this year?
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