Keeping It Local

We tell small children to write their letters to Santa early enough so that Santa’s elves have time to make the toys they wish for. The mighty elves at Neiman Marcus follow the same rules, too. The department store puts out its Christmas Book in mid-October, including a list of Dream Gifts that the top 1 percent of the top 1 percent can probably afford. A tradition dating back to 1926, this year’s dreams include his-and-her fountains, an around-the-world flower show tour and a custom-designed yurt (complete with pillows from Rebecca Vizard of St. Joseph, La., and a custom, hand-crafted crystal chandelier from New Orleans-based Julie Neill Designs).

As I was perusing this year’s selection of unobtainable items, I noticed something interesting. As a reward for purchasing such an elaborate gift, Neiman Marcus will donate a portion of the proceeds to select charities; for example, in return for purchasing the $1 million his-and-her fountains designed by WET, of Bellagio fountain fame, Neiman Marcus will donate $10,000 to water.org, an organization that provides safe drinking water in developing countries.

Now, don’t get me wrong. There is nothing wrong with this idea of buying something that gives to a larger, worldwide nonprofit or organization. I personally purchased pink items during the month of October because a portion of the proceeds went to help with breast cancer research through the Susan G. Komen Foundation. I know research from these larger charities could very well save my life, or the life of another.

But there are many charities right here in the Houma-Thibodaux area that could use our donations, too. Many of them host their own fundraiser, with silent auctions full of donated items from local merchants and artisans. Junior Auxiliary of Houma will host their annual Denim and Diamonds event on Nov. 3. The proceeds go right back into Terrebonne Parish to help fund service projects dedicated to the well-being of women and children. TFAE will host Great Conversations on Nov. 8 to help provide local kindergarteners in public schools with an educational book of their own. These are just two small examples of local organizations that take your donations and return them back to your community where you choose to live, work and raise your family.

Other ways to give back locally include volunteering your time by joining a local service organization, such as Rotary, Junior Auxiliary or Habitat for Humanity. Donate old clothing to TARC’s Cedar Chest and help provide this amazing group of citizens with a meaningful employment opportunity. Or give the greatest gift of all—life—by donating blood at a local blood bank.

You can always give back to your community through the simple act of shopping locally. As you flip through the pages of this month’s magazine, notice all the local advertisements for independent retailers. By purchasing the products they sell or the services they offer, you help to keep your hard-earned money in this community.

What are some of the charities that are close to your heart? Share them with our readers by logging onto our Facebook page and starting a conversation. Introduce a whole new generation to the importance of giving.