One of my favorite things to do is search online for ideas of gifts that donors might give. I've been thinking a lot about healthy/organic/sustainable/local/insert-trend-here eating lately and know that it is something that is important to many of our donors. In fact, we have a few gifts on our site available right now that are intended to help start a sustainable school garden ala Alice Waters. (If you're an educator and are enticed by this possibility, login and search "garden.")
Growing up in Southern California, many of us had gardens in our backyards (although my green thumb was more brown, unfortunately). Living in colder climates over the last few years, however, made me realize more acutely the challenges inherent in gardening during the school year. I visited a school in Detroit last year that has a budding garden and aspirations of one day being able to supplement their school lunches with food they grow themselves. The realities of living in a colder climate, however, make this challenging/nearly impossible.
How amazing would it be, though, if they had the resources to do so? I just came across a greenhouse that can be erected by students/volunteers on the side of a school building. It would help any interested school realize their vision of a sustainable school lunch program and would supplement science curriculum. Many groups we work with are raising large sums of money and hoping to find exciting ways to use their donations. If you're with a group that is passionate about this issue (or you're an individual/family looking to make a big impact), you might consider this path. The greenhouses start at around $11,000. Click here if you'd like to check 'em out.
And, if you want to give a gift (of any variety)...create an account here and then login here to design your gift. Happy and healthy eating to everyone.