Instead of regifting, stockpiling, or throwing out unwanted items this holiday season, donate them so they can do some good in the world!
Chris Ritter / BuzzFeed
Donate used iPods to people suffering from Alzheimer's.
Music and Memory collects music devices in order to make personalized playlists for Alzheimer's and dementia patients, which help to "tap deep memories not lost to dementia and can bring residents and clients back to life, enabling them to feel like themselves again, to converse, socialize and stay present." Print out a prepaid package label here.
Trade in all kinds of recyclable material, like packaging, for charitable gifts that go to the organization of your choice.
Terracycle offers a huge range of programs for recycling everything from office supplies to candy wrappers to wine corks. Then, you receive points you can use to give money to the organizations you care about.
New or gently-used, sanitized makeup can be donated to victims of domestic violence.
Organizations like Give and Makeup accept all kinds of beauty essentials. They won't take anything used that has an applicator (like mascara or lipgloss) and their basic rule is "if you would happily give it to a friend - we'll take it!" Many local women's shelters have similar policies; get in touch with one near you for more detailed information.
