I was struck today by two conversations with colleagues at work who told me about children asking for a donation to charity instead of a gift for Christmas or a birthday.  One child was aged 5; the other aged 14. Wow, I was impressed.  And that got me thinking, how many others are like that?

While I couldn't get a handle on how many kids are deferring gifts, I did find quite a few blogs and web sites talking about the importance of teaching our children early to give instead of get.  One website, Use Your Birthday, actually offers party ideas for hosting charity-based events. (NOTE:  I blogged earlier this month about Tea Party Angels as well).

When it comes to adults, a recent American Red Cross Survey found that 4 in 10 people were asking gift givers to donate to charity instead of buying them anything.  Moreover, 80% of people said they would be happy to give to a charity instead of a family member of friend if prompted to do so.  Sixty-two percent of consumers say they plan to donate to charity, with half committed to giving $50 or more.  A larger percentage (84%) plan to donate clothing or household goods; 75% said they'd donate food; 39% planned to volunteer and 22% said they'd donate blood.

What about you?  Are you giving to charity in lieu of a gift?  Are you asking others to do so on your behalf?