Gift Guide: Gifts That Give Back

What to get the do-gooder in your life? We suggest a present that comes with a promise to give back. Here are five good-looking products that are born from a charitable place.

Above: Far & Wide Collective works with artisans in developing countries to bring their products to a global market. In return, Far & Wide invests a portion of its profits into their workers, providing new tools and resources. We have our eye on the outfit’s handwoven baskets, such as this Yellow and Pink Striped Basket made by a group of 30 women weavers in Kenya, $145 for large (similar smaller designers are available for $59).  

Above: Francesca put the Mercer Backpack ($225 from State Bags) on our radar in Editors’ Picks: 11 Favorite Urban Backpacks. For every backpack sold, State Bags delivers “a backpack packed with essential tools for success for an American child in need.” 

Above: To combat the growing number of displaced and unemployed US veterans, accessories company Sword & Plough works only with factories that employ vets. The iPad Sleeve is made of repurposed military canvas and leather; $69. 

Above: A portion of the proceeds from the sale of S’well Water Bottles goes to WaterAid, an international nonprofit that works to provide clean water to 27 countries. The stainless-steel bottles keep cold drinks cold for 24 hours and hot drinks hot for 12 hours; they come in three different sizes and a multitude of colors and finishes–black from the Matte Collection is shown here–priced from $25 to $45. 

Above: Based in Uganda, Sseko works with fair-trade women artisans to make scarves, sandals, and leather accessories. The group provides a source of income for women who are working to get to college or are already pursuing a degree. Handwoven in Ethiopia, the all-cotton Gillian Scarf is $48. 

Find the perfect presents–take a look at our Gift Guides, including:

• Gifts for the Hipster Man
• Games for All Ages
• Books for the Architect
• Finds for the Cat Lover
• Gifts for the Host (for Less Than $50)
• Gifts for the Gardener
• Last-Minute Holiday Gift: Shop the Supermarket (and Disguise It)