Gifts That Make an Impact: World Vision Gift Catalog {Review & Giveaway}

As we head out shopping this holiday season, it's easy to think of the most traditional categories: the hottest toys, the most sought-out electronics, the ultimate in stylish home decor.

Of those, there are some holiday gifts that are practical and there are some that purely for entertainment, either of which is completely fine. After all, everything from a Barbie doll to a new coffeemaker has a place or serves a purpose in our lives.

But what if there was something more? What if there was a way to provide a gift that could be enjoyed, while, at the same time, it helped to instill a sense of compassion? One that gives knowledge and a feeling of global responsibility? Inspiration and encouragement to take action in our lives to make a difference in the world?

That's exactly what is found with World Vision.

In the U.S., one in every five children lives in poverty and 44% of America's poor are in "deep poverty," meaning they live below half the poverty line. That number is among the highest ever and includes nearly 10% of all children in the United States!

World Vision provides assistance to people in nearly 100 countries and the World Vision Gift Catalog is one of many programs designed to help eradicate poverty and provide hope around the world. Can you think of a better fit for the holiday season?

First, those who want to give a general donation can donate to where it is most needed. Their donation is a one-time gift that will go towards needs that might otherwise go unmet.

Second, shoppers can choose a meaningful, life-changing gift to meet the urgent needs of children here in the U.S. and around the world. These alternative gift ideas include goats, cows, chickens, school supplies, fresh water wells and much more, and have the ability to help children and families in struggling communities from all ends of the earth.

Third, shoppers have the option of sending a card or giving a gift to a friend or family member, wherein that person can receive a beautiful, handmade gift such as hand-carved spoons, a fair-trade coffee set, handmade jewelry and more. That gift accompanies a contribution to the Maximum Impact Fund, which helps in the areas of greatest needs, and the recipient will receive a special card describing the gift and its impact.

What an amazing opportunity to make an important charitable donation while still giving a meaningful, amazing gift!

And, let me tell you, when one of these gifts arrives and it is absolutely beautiful while demonstrating the generosity of your gift-giver, it's hard to not feel immensely proud and special.

As I pulled the Prosperity Cinnamon out of its packaging, I was immediately smitten with the delicious smell as well as the simplicity and beauty of the carved bark box.

I love knowing that Vietnam's renowned sweet cinnamon is a renewable resource collected from the Cassia tree and that is continues to be sold to benefit generations of hard working families. Not only will I be able to give this beautiful box featuring the Asian character for prosperity (and 3 oz. of cinnamon) as a wonderful gift, but it will also include the overall knowledge of supporting a great cause.

I love that this will make such a unique gift but that it will also provide a perfect lead-in to tell people about World Vision and the large selection of gift options that they have available!

The 2013 holiday season marks the 18th annual edition of the World Vision Gift Catalog and I couldn't be more proud to help support it. In 2012 alone, the World Vision U.S. Gift Catalog raised over $33 million and provided assistance to more than 825,000 people around the world.

Last year, more than 67,000 goats were purchased by donors, and while a goat ($75) may be World Vision's number one seller, there are more than 250 items online to choose from (more than 30 gifts in the catalog are $35 or less, including items like chickens, job training or school supplies).

This holiday season, don't just give a gift. Consider a gift from the World Vision Gift Catalog, knowing that it can significantly improve the life of a child or family in need by providing tools and opportunities to overcome extreme poverty. At the same time, your friends and loved ones will be honored as they read their special card describing the gift and the impact it is making.

Now that's the true spirit of Christmas.

To find out more about the World Vision Gift Catalog, you can watch their video explaining how the catalog works, visit them at WorldVisionGifts.org, and connect with them on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Plus, thanks to their never-ending generosity, one person will be able to proudly share in the inspirational, life-changing ways of this organization as well, because...

One lucky person will win Prosperity Cinnamon (ARV $85)
from World Vision!

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A big thank you to World Vision for providing Prosperity Cinnamon for me as well as for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.