Changing the Present is a nonprofit website that offers individuals the opportunity to purchase gifts to support charitable causes around the world. The goal of the program is to encourage people to purchase one of their charitable gifts in place of something the person does not need. Instead, gifts that are greatly needed around the world are donated in that person’s name.
Before becoming part of the website, nonprofits go through a strict review process conducted by the board of Changing the Present. Nonprofits who offer gifts on the website have agreed to use the money donated on the item that is purchased. Items must be goods or services that organization was already providing. Each gift lists the organization that provides the good or service, so visitors can choose to support those organizations they know or feel comfortable supporting .
Gifts to Fight HIV/AIDS
Changing the Present has a long list of gifts that help fight and raise awareness for HIV/AIDS. These gifts are used around the world to prevent, treat, and research HIV. Organizations represented include Partners in Health, Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network, Catholic Relief Services, and the Global Health Council. Gifts to help fight HIV include the following:
- Supporting the South African version of Sesame Street, which uses television to help destigmatize HIV
- Purchase and distribution of condoms
- Education of AIDS orphans
- Help fund a documentary on the impact of HIV
Available gifts range in price from US$10-US$500. For a small extra fee, the purchaser has the option of sending a card or e-card to the person for whom the gift was purchased. These cards feature a brief overview of the gift on the inside, along with an optional personalized message.
Charitable Gifts for Any Cause
Changing the Present has a variety of causes that can be supported through their gifts, not just HIV/AIDS. Other causes that can be supported through the site include education, hunger, refugees, global warming, mental health, and microcredit. The large range of available organizations and issues means there is something to spark everyone’s interest.
Registries and Individual Wish Lists
In addition to purchasing gifts for others, individuals and couples can sign up for a registry or wish list on the Changing the Present website. They have special registries for weddings, baby arrivals, memorials, and graduations. This is perfect for couples who do not need many of the typical items purchased for weddings, such as kitchen appliances and bath linens. Anyone can register to create their own holiday wish list that can be accessed by their friends are relatives around the globe.
