Instead of getting trampled in Black Friday madness this week, why not do some shopping that actually makes the world a better place?

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For the last couple of years, I’ve made Christmas presents of goats, honeybees, and clean water for needy families. Talk abouiFrame Removedt giving something you know will be put to good use!

Heifer International offers a number of charitable gifts in all price ranges and they’ll send or let you print a pretty gift card for your loved one. Check it out!

Fonder of shoes than you are of farm animals? Buy a pair of TOMS shoes or a gift certificate and you’ll also provide a needy child with shoes. Take it from me: they have a plethora of cute shoes of all styles for the ladies in your life. They’ve also started selling sunglasses and for each pair sold will help the visually impaired.

You know your kids don’t really need another truckload from Toys “R” Us. Why not help them make a homemade card and send a gift certificate to the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles to provide toys for sick children who can’t afford their own.

Got a foodie on your list? Why not Adopt an Olive Tree on their behalf? In addition to helping olive farmers in Italy, you’ll be giving a year’s supply of high quality olive oil from your adopted tree! Honor a loved one by helping build a house on her behalf. Habitat for Humanity’s Gifts from the Heart program makes it easy.

For all you Nonprofits out there, how could you package a contribution to help your constituents give the gift of charity this holiday?

This Friday, sleep in, grab some leftovers, and kick back with your laptop for some Guilt Free Shopping!