Here Are the Best Holiday Gifts

Forget the scarf or necktie. These gifts change lives.

Wondering what gifts to get friends and relatives for the holidays? Have I got some great suggestions for you!

For the last dozen years, I’ve published an annual holiday giving guide, with suggestions for “gifts of meaning” that change lives abroad or at home. In the past, I always published these in my New York Times column, but since I’ve left the Times to run for governor, this year I’m publishing my new one in The Washington Post. Check it out!

My grand prize winner, collecting $100,000 immediately plus what donors contribute, is the Seva Foundation, which fights blindness. I’ve seen the toll of blindness in poor countries, plus the exhilaration of people who get their sight back. In the case of cataracts, Seva can restore sight for just $50 per eye – and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the holidays than to restore a person’s sight.

Another organization I recommend this year fights for women’s health in Congo, repairing fistulas and standing against sexual violence. Anther works to empower young Americans in the job market by training them in computer-related skills.

Because some people have more time than money to contribute, I’ve also recommended two volunteer opportunities including mentoring and helping kids learn to read.

You can find out more about these organizations, or donate or volunteer, at my website, KristofImpact.org. If you donate there, the credit card fees are covered and the organization you choose gets 100 cents on the dollar.

I owe a special thanks to Focusing Philanthropy, the nonprofit that encourages smart giving. It helps me manage this annual giving appeal, from picking winners to making sure the donations are handled properly.

When I left The Times to run for office, the one thing I wanted to make sure I continued in journalism was my annual giving guide. I miss commenting on the news of course, but this feels special: It transforms lives. So while I may now be an unemployed has-been ex-journalist, I was determined to continue this tradition.

I hope you’ll visit KristofImpact.org and consider the possible gifts. Instead of giving another necktie or scarf, consider helping someone overcome blindness.