DonorsChoose.org

Help supply pencils, reference books, and field trips to public schools in need. Purchase a gift certificate for any amount and it will be sent to the recipient, who then selects the project to donate to. Gold stars all around.
www.donorschoose.org

MarkMakers

Geared toward kids, this website makes donating fun. Choose a gift card from $10 and up and print it out or e-mail it directly to a child, who can return to the site and allocate the money to a cause of his or her choice.
www.markmakers.org

Mercy Corps

Select from more than 20 “Mercy Kits”: aid packages (from $20 to $1,000) that support such causes as Hurricane Katrina relief and aid to African refugees. Your friend receives a card containing your message.
www.mercycorps.org

Arbor Day Foundation

Money may not grow on trees, but it can help save them. For $6 the foundation will plant a tree in your recipient’s honor and mail you a greeting card that you can send her for the holidays.
www.arborday.org

Habitat for Humanity

A low-flow toilet isn’t on his wish list, but a family served by Habitat for Humanity home builders will appreciate one. Make a donation of at least $10 in your loved one’s name and he’ll receive a greeting card detailing your gift.
www.habitat.org

Changing the Present

Save an elephant. Vaccinate a needy child. Like a charity shopping mall, this site offers 33 causes to donate to. Choose one of its cards (sent directly to the recipient) or write a caption to create your own.
www.changingthepresent.org