In a time when life is uncertain, and we are entering a holiday season that is so different than any other, we may question and wonder how to truly celebrate this holiday season. As the pandemic and economic crisis worsens, so many of us sadly will not be able to travel and celebrate with our loved ones. And even for those who are fortunate enough to be with family and friends, the emotional weight of this past year -- between coronavirus, financial difficulties, political divisions, a feeling of isolation -- can be so difficult.

I also believe that this year has challenged us in other, more positive ways. This year has encouraged us all to find more meaning in our relationships (with others and with ourselves), savor the small moments of life, take time with nature, and find more creative ways to support one another and recognize things that drastically need change. It has clearly shown us just how we are all connected, we are indeed one and when one person is affected by something, we all feel it – the good and the bad.

Through all of this (and life in general), when things are not going “according to plan” or in a way that I feel they should have, I look for ways to give.

This holiday season, I am excited to amplify the good that 9 amazing companies are doing to give back to their communities. Here are my top suggestions for my favorite products that give back in a meaningful way, are top quality and remind us that we are all part of a greater global community.

**One Golden Thread:** Not only do these high-quality, luxuriously soft nature wraps feel like a silky second skin and can be used in over 100 ways, but they are sustainably made and every item purchased plants a tree. The company also donates a percentage of proceeds to nonprofits aligning to our vision.

**One Grid Candle:** Every candle (which is hand-poured and made with wonderful essential oils!) that is purchased delivers a solar light to a person living without electricity in a rural part of the world, which translates into $70 in savings, allows children to do an extra hour of schoolwork, and prevents the inhalation of deadly kerosene fumes (breathing these fumes is the toxic equivalent of smoking 170 cigarettes a year!).

**Love Your Melon**: These cute and cozy hats are perfect for winter. Best of all, 50 percent of net profit from the sale of all Love Your Melon products is given to nonprofit organizations around the world that lead the fight against pediatric cancer. So far, they have donated over $7 million and given hundreds of thousands of super-soft beanies to children with cancer.

**Grounds and Hounds Coffee:** Coffee and puppies, what could be better? This company supports rescue initiatives and organizations providing a second chance for pups in need of a helping hand. 20% of profits are donated to rescue organizations working to make the second chance mission a reality. Mugs, brewing gear, and apparel are also available.

**Project 7:** The perfect stocking stuffer! A brand that provides better sweet treats (which are delicious, keto-friendly, and plant-based with only 3g sugar, 6g carbs and 60 calories per bag), while also helping to fund critical areas of need, like hunger, clean drinking water, and shelter.

**World Wildlife Fund:** I take so much pride in being a WWF Panda Ambassador, because of the extraordinary work that they do to protect our most vulnerable species. They are incredibly intelligent in what they do and how they address conservation efforts for people and nature to live in harmony. Now, with animal adoption kits, you can join their effort. Adopt your favorite animal (hundreds are available, from snow leopards to elephants to dolphins and whales), and receive a cute stuffed animal plus updates about the animal and know that your purchase goes to supporting global conservation work.

**Bunnies by the Bay:** The perfect gift for the little ones in your life! Bunnies by the Bay offers unbelievably plush toys that can be exclusively customized, and which give back to organizations that are most in need, including the COVID Emergency Fund, Mary’s Place, and Worldwide Orphans, to help spread light and love. And the gift sets are packaged so cute!

**Nomadix:** I’m obsessed with these towels, which are perfect for yoga, the beach, travel, camping, and are made from post-consumer recycled material. They come in countless fun designs, and are made with sustainability in mind at every step. Their changing ponchos are wonderful for any surfers in your life.

**Fine Art Print**s: For every print brought into your home, at least 40 kids will receive educational supplies to learn and grow. Collaborating with UNICEF helps make this possible in more than 190 countries and territories worldwide. My hope is that a piece of joy and positivity from these images around the world is brought into your home and provides children a chance to education and a healthy life.

Bonus Ideas!

More Sunday: treat a friend (or yourself) to beautifully-made silk pajama sets. They’re made with minimal exposure to chemicals, and are designed so you can sleep and lounge comfortably in and out of your home.
Beekeepers Natural’s: My go to medicine cabinet for touring and travel. From propolis throat spray that helps keep everyone on tour healthy to immune supporting bee pollen and superfood honey. 10% of profits from their apparel line go back to support charity partners who focus on bee research and protecting our very necessary bee population.
Roam: artisanal self-care gifts that are perfect for friends, clients, and co-workers. Handmade and can be personalized!
COYUCHI: this exceptional brand has made the first ever full circle recycled cotton blanket -- conserving days and days of drinking water, miles of emissions and protecting tons of land from dangerous pesticides.

Gifts That Give Back