Gift Exchange Alternative

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Home : 2004 : November : 21

Gift Exchange Alternative
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For many years I struggled with balancing the whole gift exchange idea, along with the countless numbers of teacher's mugs & fancy pen/paper sets that I would receive from my students (I don't mean to sound ungrateful, but
I felt there had to be a better way for families to spend their money). Now, instead of bringing gifts to exchange with students &/or teachers, I have found the following idea to be VERY well received by the families of my students:
The last day before winter break we have a holiday party. Instead of bringing gifts for each other or for the teacher, the parents & students are instructed

to bring a "TICKET" to attend the party. The "TICKET" can be either a donation to our local food pantry &/or a donation to our local animal shelter. I set out two big boxes, one labeled "Food Pantry" & one "Animsl Shelter". In the weeks before our party the students bring in their "TICKET" donations and put them in the boxes. (I never keep track of who has contributed and who has not to prevent bad feelings for the families who cannot afford to contribute.) It is wonderful to see the boxes overflowing with canned goods, bags of dog food, etc. on the day of the party. Parents frequently tell me that they really like the idea because it is for a very good cause & it saves them the worry of having to find the perfect gift for gift exchanges. After the party I deliver the donations to the pantry & shelter, and I drive home with a big smile on my face. Good luck!