My 29 year old son asked for books for Christmas.  I contacted 4 people he loves and/or admires and asked that they email me their five favorite books.  I then found the books at used bookstores.  In his package I've included their emails - which most often briefly explain why the person has put this book on their 'top 5' list.  It's coming together to be a very cool gift! 

I'm new to this site, so if this idea has already been submitted, I apologize.  If it violates the spirit of the site, again I apologize.  It's just that I love this idea so much I like to pass it on when I have the chance.

http://www.redefine-christmas.org

http://www.thesenumbers.org/happy-holidays.html
Make a donation in the name of a loved one by sponsoring a South African college student or sports team.

This Christmas, change a life with your gift. ACIRFA is turning Africa around one bike at a time. But it's not just
about bikes and bike carts and bike ambulances, it's about changing lives. By giving a bike (or a portion
of a bike) to someone in need, you can give them a chance to grow their

Put a $20 or $50 bill in a gift card holder and mail it to someone who could use it. DO THIS ANONYMOUSLY. If you want, add a scripture (typed) in with the money, that will be encouraging to the recipient.

This year, loads of [AC] churches are rallying around Fair Trade as a way to infuse their Christmas gifts with meaning and significance. [AC] is partnering with Trade as One to bring Fair Trade into the conspiracy. (see their blog and podcast for details) Here's an example of a Fair Trade gift, and the profound impact it can have on the artisans making it in India.<!--break-->

Last year for Christmas, I made a calendar for everyone in my family. I included all of the birthdays of people in our immediate family, and then any extended family birthdays I could find. I also included some fun entries, like inventions of common household items. Then, instead of just a picture on each month, I highlighted a charity that was on my heart. In that month, I made a donation to that charity in our family's name. One month I left open, and had each person choose a charity that I would make a donation to in their name. It was a big hit. A real gift that keeps on giving.