craigconnects teamed up with the American Red Cross on the #perfectgift campaign this past December. The idea of the campaign was for people to tell me, and the American Red Cross, what their #perfectgift would be. This gift could be for themselves or someone else, and for each mention across the web, until December 31, 2011, I donated up to $10k to the American Red Cross. The money was used to support the purchase of military comfort kits for our troops.

The American Red Cross shared that, “We think a perfect gift would be the opportunity to show all of you the very real impact that your donations have on the people helped by Red Cross every year!” I explained that, “my #perfectgift is when I’m able to give to those who do such good stuff.”

Eileen Unger posted on my Facebook page, that her #perfectgift would be:

To take advantage of every opportunity to ‘make a difference’ and to have the voice and ability to encourage others to do the same.

Kathleen Dean wrote on the Red Cross’ Facebook page to share her story:

Many years ago, my husband asked, ‘So what do you want for Christmas?’ My reply, ‘That you donate blood on a regular basis next year.’ Adding, ‘It is the gift of life that keeps on giving.’ He did that too.

We also reached out to the community to ask who made a charitable donation on someone’s behalf as a gift this year? We received a large variety of answers.
On Twitter…

@annekbradley said,

This year , I donated to Aid to Victims of Domestic Violence, my dad’s favoriote charity, in his honor. #perfectgift

@benmangan

donated to #PolarisProject, which fights modern day slavery, in memory of [his] grandmother, Florence Mangan.

People shared photos of their #perfectgift, too.

@LaurenJJohnson shared a picture of her giving blood:

the gift that saves the day through @RedCross!

@jerryjamesstone even tweeted at Craig,

Hey @craignewmark I’d like to match your @redcross donation as the #perfectgift for the first 100 tweeps who respond to you.

Jason Wilhoite told the Red Cross that

The perfect gift would be to see 10,000 donated even if you don’t get 10,000 comments. Now that would be a great gift.

I’m happy to announce that I was able to give the full $10k.

I hope folks will keep giving now that the holidays are over. As the American Red Cross tweeted recently,

…join us in 2012 and give hope to people who need it year-round.

Remember, if you would like to support the work we do year round to help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies, you can still give through our Holiday Catalog.

@craignewmark @RedCross My perfect gift would be watching my girls opening up their X-mas gifts and spending time with love ones.

— Andrea Dennard (@Lontaye82) December 22, 2011

#perfectgift is to donate to the Northern Home for Children. The help at-risk kids with after school tutoring and activities. Rkthb.co/3880

— Amy Mummert (@mumcock) December 22, 2011

The weather outside is frightful, and your help would be delightful. Donate blood: bit.ly/pzCcMA #perfectgift

— Thomas W. Petty (@tomwsi) December 22, 2011

@craignewmark Dad died of cancer 3 years ago at Christmas. Donate now to help find a cure for cancer. He’s my Christmas angel#perfectgift

— Deb Coats (@coatsea) December 21, 2011

@craignewmark Hi! I donated to @ecoedutainment @globalexchange to give a @pachaspajamas book to a child in need #perfectgift @redcross

— Dayna Reggero (@DaynaReggero) December 21, 2011

We gave to the @audobonsociety for our Mom this year, we all love birds #perfectgift thanks @craignewmark

— Sue Reddel (@shreddel) December 20, 2011

@craignewmark last Christmas, let my sister choose a @Kiva loan as her gift. This year’s #perfectgift is still a Christmas secret!

— Kathryn Peters (@kathrynepeters) December 20, 2011

When I was growing up my mom listened to the country station and my dad listened to the oldies station, therefore my sister and I also listened to country and oldies. After a few years of exposure to both genres, I developed a preference for country and my sister for oldies. So despite what I might have said during my teenage years (I clearly remember publicly insulting country music at a Girl Scout troop meeting after my mom said she liked it – gee, teenagers are fun), I’m a country fan.

Some of my favorite artists include Rascal Flatts (2011 American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet member), Dixie Chicks, Martina McBride, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Sugarland, and now…Jenna Christine.

You probably haven’t heard about Jenna Christine…yet. She’s an independent artist, currently based in Orlando, FL, who is about to explode into the country music scene. Both a singer and a song-writer, Jenna Christine has worked in a multitude of different entertainment fields, but has always known that the only way to truly be successful is to follow your dreams and to pursue what makes one happiest in life…and for her, that’s making music.

I’ve been a fan of Jenna Christine’s for a while now, but when I learned of her latest Youtube campaign – 12 Days of Christmas*…and Worthy Causes – I came to admire and appreciate her even more.

This past Saturday, Jenna Christine chose the American Red Cross as her “worthy cause” so that the 1,000+ fans who view each of her videos could learn a little more about the mission of our organization and more specifically, about the need for blood donors. Please take a moment to view Jenna Christine’s American Red Cross tribute video by clicking here or on the image below. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

In the name of full disclosure, I should share with you that Jenna Christine is my wonderfully lovely and compassionate sister-in-law. So from our family – mine and Jenna Christine’s – to yours, happy holidays and merry everything.

* The American Red Cross is part of the Red Cross Movement, which has seven overarching principles that guide our services and allow us to help people from all backgrounds. Though the neutrality of the American Red Cross does not allow for the promotion of any specific religious beliefs, the organization strives to include all religions and to allow for the celebration of all religious holidays.

*this post came to us from the blog of Cindy Haskins Monro, in Arizona.  During the holiday season there is always a significant drop in blood donations, when demand is especially high.  Consider scheduling an appointment today.

My husband, Bruce, has been donating blood for over 10 years.  I figured he was representing our family and we were doing our part.  I thought they froze the blood and stockpiled it for future use.  I thought surely they always have plenty of blood on hand.  I was so wrong.

Blood donors make up a mere 5% of the 38% of Americans eligible to donate. I found that statistic rather shocking.  Also, red blood cells are refrigerated and have a shelf life of only 45 days.  (Your donated blood has been used or has expired 11 days before you are eligible to donate again in 56 days, which explains why it is necessary for the American Red Cross to call upon its donors so often.) Just a few are carrying the load for the many and the daily struggle to meet the demand of hospitals for blood is constant.

My First Experience

Newly informed, I set out last Saturday to donate blood.  I was headed for the American Red Cross building in Tucson when I spotted a Red Cross mobile unit about a block away, next to Diamondback Police Supply.  I decided to see if I could donate there, since it appeared a blood drive was underway.

I parked my car and walked over to the sign-in sheet where I was greeted by Barbara Belhumeur.  I was given material to read, and since I had no appointment, I sat down to wait my turn.  I soon noticed everyone seemed to know one another and there was a sense of something special happening in the air.  Everyone was smiling, everyone was hugging, with special attention paid to Holly, who was stationed at the sign-in table, as well as to Barbara and a gentleman named Larry.  I asked Barbara if this was a special event.  It was.

Barbara and Larry Belhumeur lost their son, Holly’s husband, to a devastating illness recently and this was a memorial blood drive.  Mark Belhumeur (known for remarking  ’you are a scholar and a gentleman’ when introduced to someone new) had recieved the gift of blood while battling his illness.  Though he eventually succumbed, his family wished to give back and to help save the lives of others in his name.  Mark had worked at Diamondback Police Supply, which is why the location was so appropriate.  He was obviously much loved and is deeply missed by all who knew him.  His family and friends did him proud that day.

As I waited my turn, I marveled at the resiliency of the human spirit and at the ability of this lovely family to turn tragedy into hope for others.  My name was called and I entered the bus.

I was first seated in a private cubicle by a young, attractive phlebotomist named Alethea , who pricked my finger (felt like a sharp snap, not particularly painful) and took a speck of blood, which she tested for adequate iron.  She also checked my blood pressure.  I then answered a few questions regarding travel and personal associations, all of which is strictly confidential.

It was determined I was healthy and eligible to donate (I had eaten an iron-rich breakfast and drunk plenty of water, which also makes your veins more accessable) and I was instructed to recline comfortably on a padded bench seat.  Alethea inserted the needle neatly and cleanly and approximately 10 minutes later I had given a unit of blood.  John, another Red Cross professional, cleaned me up, bandaged me and, after making sure I was feeling OK, sent me to the front of the bus. I thought, ‘what a simple and easy way to impact the lives of others in a beneficial way’.

I made my way to the front of the bus where assorted snacks and beverages had been made available to replenish the energy of donors.  While seated in this mini recovery area, I met a young mother named Shannon, who had donated at the same time.  Shannon, in her motherly wisdom, had brought along her nine year old daughter, Olivia (darling with long golden hair), so that she could observe and learn.   Also on hand was Elisa Rister, Mrs. Arizona 2009, who is friend to Holly Belhumeur.  She is as beautful and as down to earth as they come and provided wonderful support to the cause.

After chatting a while, I was free to go.  I asked everyone’s permission to mention them in this article.  They all kindly agreed.  We hugged and I walked away feeling like I had done something meaningful that morning.  I know I will become a regular, lifelong donor thanks to the generosity of spirit I experienced with the Belhumeur family and the kind, professional attention I received from the American Red Cross professionals, Alethea and John.  My heartfelt thanks to all of you for making my first blood donation so memorable!

First stop, the American Red Cross Store. Here are my five favorite items for sale at this online shop:

- Solarlink F360 Eton Emergency Radio (ON SALE for $53.96) The Red Cross sells a number of emergency radios, but this one is my favorite. I love the color (I’m partial to anything red), the four power sources, the auxiliary output, and the USB compatibility.

- 2012 One Red Cross Calendar ($9.95) What better way to ring in the new year than with a Red Cross calendar on which to keep track of all of your volunteer commitments! I’m particularly partial to Red Cross calendars as both of my kids have made appearances in the past. (They’re not in this year’s calendar – sorry.)

- Baby Vintage Onesie ($18.50) I love all of the Red Cross vintage clothing, but this onesie is one of my favorite pieces. Both of my kids sported Red Cross onesies at one time or another, but that was before the vintage option came out. I’ll be purchasing the vintage style for friends who are having babies in the next few months.

- Stainless Steel Water Bottle ($24.95) We’re all trying to live a little greener, so why not pick up one of these army green water bottles? They’re perfect for home, the office, the gym, and travel.

- Vintage Field Bag ($25.00) I LOVE this bag. It’s great for toting everything from Red Cross teaching materials to my laptop to diapers, and it goes with nearly everything.

There’s also plenty of Red Cross apparel, pins, first aid kids, and emergency kits and radios available, should those things be more in line with what your family and friends would like for the holidays.

Second stop, the American Red Cross Holiday Giving Catalog. If the family and friends for whom you’re shopping already have everything they need, consider purchasing a “gift” in their name for someone in need. Here are my five favorite options from the Holiday Giving Catalog:

- Hygiene Kits for 3 Homeless Veterans ($30) Approximately 1/3 of our country’s homeless population are veterans. This gift provides these heroes with personal hygiene items like a razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, lotion, and more.

- Emergency Water Containers for 6 Families ($30) Water supplies disrupted by disasters can threaten community members with dehydration and disease. This gift provides families with containers to collect and store clean water.

- Vaccinations for 25 Children ($25) Measles still kills an estimated 450 people – mostly children – every day. This gift provides children with a lifetime of protection against this deadly disease.

- Swimming Lessons for 5 Children ($50) Many children don’t have access to swimming lessons that could someday save their lives. This gift helps increase safety around the water and prevent drowning.

- Gift of the Month ($300) Though a bit expensive by my holiday gift giving standards, this gift makes a powerful impact all year long by providing one item (infant care kit in January, hot meals in February, blankets in March, etc.) to someone in need each month.

Well now, that should cover just about everyone on your list, right? Happy shopping!

Clark: We’re kicking off our fun old-fashioned family Christmas by heading out into the country in the old front-wheel drive sleigh to embrace the frosty majesty of the winter landscape and select that most important of Christmas symbols.

Audrey: We’re not coming all the way out here just to get one of those stupid ties with Santa Clauses on it, are we?

Clark: No, I have one of those at home. What we’re looking for today is the “Griswold family Christmas tree.”

You’ve found the perfect holiday tree, strapped it to the roof of your car and made it home…time to decorate!  However, before you unleash your inner Griswold and put all the glitz and glam on your beloved tree, the Red Cross and The Muppets have a few tips keeping your holiday merry and bright.

Christmas Tree Care

• Purchase flame retardant metallic or artificial trees.
• If you purchase a real tree, make sure that it has fresh, green needles that aren’t easily broken. Keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water.
• Use a sturdy tree stand designed not to tip over.
• Keep trees at least three feet away from heat sources, including fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.
• Make sure that any light strings or other decorations for the tree are in good condition and follow manufacturer’s instructions for their use. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords.
• Be careful not to drop or flick cigarette ashes near a tree.
• Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood burning stove.
• Safely dispose of trees as they become dry and needles begin to drop.
• Dispose of trees through recycling centers or community pick-up services. Dried-out trees should not be left in a house or garage, or placed against the house or garage.

Holiday Lights and Decorations

• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets by not linking more than three light strands.
• Use decorations that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant

Place decorations at least three feet away from fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.

Now to sum this advice up, our friends The Muppets, have graciously teamed up with UL Laboratories to give the Griswold in you a little friendly tree advice.

Yesterday, Craig Newmark (of craigslist and craigconnects fame) celebrated his birthday with a somewhat different approach to gifting – he kicked off a conversation on Twitter on what the perfect gift would be, promising to donate $1 per response to the Red Cross, up to $10,000.

Results from our recent Holiday Giving poll have suggested that most Americans (68% of those surveyed) believe that because of the economy, it’s important to give something to charity. What a telling statistic. With so much variety out there in terms of what people are passionate about and what cause they would like to contribute to if they could, imagine how many lives could be changed. That’s why I’ve been excited to read the responses so far, and have been so inspired by your replies! Below are a few of my favorites.

As an aside, we’d also like to point out that if your idea of the perfect gift is giving comfort, help, or hope to someone in need, you can check out our Holiday Giving Catalog for a bunch of options through the Red Cross.

Thanks, Craig, for committing to helping us help others- we’re humbled by your support and looking forward to being a part of the conversation!

Weigh in on Twitter - what is your idea of a #perfectgift?
Tweet

For the fifth time, the American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes have partnered together to provide Americans with an opportunity to send holiday cards to United States service members, veterans, and their families. Anyone is welcome to participate, which is why I approached my son’s preschool teacher about organizing a Holiday Mail for Heroes activity for his class.

Ms. Nancy was more than willing, so I began gathering materials and practicing – on Will, my five-year-old son – how I would introduce the program to the kids. I knew I didn’t want them to start making cards without understanding who the cards were for, so I kicked off our morning by talking to these 13 four- and five-year-olds about the mission and the work of the Red Cross.

My questions, “Have any of you heard of the American Red Cross?”, “What does the American Red Cross do?”, and “How does the American Red Cross help people?” prompted quite a few interesting answers, comments, and stories about things that are red, various kinds of crosses, thunder and lightening storms, and stopping/dropping/rolling. After the fifth or sixth “One time, when I was three, I heard thunder outside my window” story (think “One time, at band camp…”), I was able to bring the kids back around to why I was there, and we moved on to discussing the support the American Red Cross provides to the United States Military.

I could see on these children’s faces that the idea of someone – anyone – not getting to spend the holidays with their family was foreign. A couple of children, whose parents aren’t even members of the Armed Forces, actually asked me if their dads would have to go away for Christmas this year.

When I felt the kids understood why and for whom they would be making these cards, I set them free to create.

Four- and five-year-olds are not particularly skilled at writing, so while they all “signed” their names (or something loosely resembling their names), their cards were decorated primarily with stickers, colored markers, and cutouts Ms. Nancy and Ms. Fran prepared ahead of time.

I think they’re beautiful.

That evening, I let my two-and-a-half-year-old daughter Hallie make a card as well. She DOES NOT like to be left out of anything, especially art projects.

The next day, Will, Hallie, and I packaged the letters and dropped them off at the post office.

This activity was an incredibly rewarding one for me. I love talking about the Red Cross, especially to children, and I love providing children with an opportunity to make a difference. Today I was able to do both, and I have no doubt Will and the 12 other preschoolers in his class both enjoyed the art project and learned a little something about the Red Cross and its place in our community.

There’s still time for you, your friends, your kids, and/or your kids’ classes to participate in the 2011 Holiday Mail for Heroes program. Simply create your cards, place them in an envelope or box (no individual envelopes are needed – just place all of your cards in one large envelope or mailing box), and send them to the address below. All packages must be postmarked no later than December 9th.

Happy creating!

Anne Marie Borrego:
Hi Charlotte. First, I have to ask, what exactly is Serve?

Charlotte:
Serve is a new product from American Express that allows you to send and receive money from friends and family. You can access Serve online or through your mobile device or use your Serve card to make purchases everywhere American Express Cards are accepted.

To put it simply, we’ve all been in situations where we need to settle up with friends, go in on a gift, split the check or raise money for a cause – Serve makes it easy to move money wherever you are.

Anne Marie Borrego:
That’s helpful. So you’ve set up this special widget for the Red Cross. How does it work?

Charlotte:
We’ve developed a Serve Red Cross Charity Widget that can easily be downloaded to any web site, blog or social media page so that our customers and their friends can donate to the American Red Cross in just a few clicks.

As part of this partnership Serve will match contributions made through the Widget throughout the holiday season.

Anne Marie Borrego:
I should pause here and say thank you. Matching gifts like this help us stay out there with our shelters, show up when a house catches fire and do all of the good work that the nation relies on us to do.

Charlotte:
You’re very welcome. We, at Serve, are thankful and excited to partner with such an important organization to help make a difference this holiday season.

The money raised will fund critical needs like shelters, hot meals, and relief supplies to those affected by hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, earthquakes, and floods.

Anne Marie Borrego:
One last question-After making a donation, I might want to share the widget with my friends. Can I do that?

Charlotte:
To help us spread the world and encourage your friends to participate, download the American Red Cross Charity Widget on your blog, Facebook page or any of the social networks you hang out, or simply go to the Red Cross Site to donate and help us reach the maximum goal this holiday season – every dollar counts!

Have you used the Holiday Giving Widget? Did you share it? Please leave a comment, letting us know what you think.