Heifer International
There's a reason why so many relief organization offer animal gifts; they help impoverished communities become self-sustaining. Animals produce milk, food, fertilizer and wool — not to mention offspring that can be sold at market. Through Heifer International, you can select from more than two dozen gifts that empower families, from a heifer ($500 — or share the cost for $50) to a trio of rabbits ($60 — or share the cost for $10). And if you're feeling really generous, the "Ark" option ($5,000) includes 15 pairs of animals, whose offspring will be donated by receiving families to others in need, so the gift can multiply for years to come. To announce your gift, you can send a Heifer card, a personalized Shutterfly card or an e-card. Heifer International, founded in 1944, spends about 76% of its funds on programs.