Green Daily

Still working on gift ideas for that one hard-to-shop for person on your list?

'Tis the season to do what's best... for those on your gift list, and for the world at large. I often think about giving a donation in someone's name, but then wonder if that someone might not like the same charities I do.

The website Tis Best takes care of these concerns. Founder Erik Marks explains on the company website: "We believe there is too much focus on gifts of 'stuff' and that a donation gift is often the most appreciated and satisfying and gift of all." It's more satisfying, though, if you get to have a hand in choosing where the money goes.

Those who receive Tis Best gift cards can choose from 250 carefully vetted organizations to receive the donations. Environmental choices include the Earthwatch Institute, Earthjustice, and American Rivers, among many others. Also on the list are organizations like Amnesty International, Habitat for Humanity (one of my personal favorites) and La Leche League.

The gift cards are available in the "classic" plastic form with a number of customizable images; but if you're going green for the holidays you might just email the gift and save a little paper, too.