While everyone else is busy planning their “new year, new me” gym routines, why not try “new year, new way to make the world awesome” instead?
Below are some ideas for kicking off January with a resolution that actually sticks (and doesn’t involve protein shakes or 6 AM workout classes). Whether you’re keen to support incredible women-led businesses, show your kids what being a global citizen looks like, or support climate action, there are plenty of ways to make a difference that will fit perfectly into your life.
7 New Year’s Resolutions To Give Back
Become a recurring giver
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Here’s a fun fact that science actually backs up: being generous is like a happiness workout for your brain! Studies show that when we give to others, our bodies release feel-good chemicals — the same ones you get from hugs, chocolate, and those cute pet videos you can’t stop watching.
To turn that science-backed joy into a year-round thing, pop a monthly reminder in your calendar to visit Unwrapped gift cards and pick out your gift of choice. Maybe it’s a Chicken in March (because why not?) or a Garden gift in July — there’s no rule saying meaningful gifts are just for December! Think of it as your monthly appointment to make the world a bit better.
Pro tip: Set your reminder for payday, when your wallet’s feeling friendly.
Learn about a new issue
Getting clued up on global issues should be on our list of resolutions this year. That’s because these challenges have a way of connecting us all. They can influence everything from our food to the stability of our shared future. When we understand how these challenges connect to our daily lives, we’re better at spotting ways to make positive change.
To start, pick one cause that makes your heart beat a little faster. Maybe it’s something you’ve always wondered about or an issue that keeps popping up in your newsfeed. Then let your inner detective loose: follow changemakers on social media, tune into podcasts, or join communities of like-minded folks who geek out about making a difference.
Teach kids about the joy of helping others
We talked about giving being basically a happiness workout for your brain earlier. Well, imagine teaching your kids about that awesome feeling early on! It’s like handing them a secret recipe for happiness—except instead of baking cookies, they’re cooking up positive change in the world.
To start, grab an Unwrapped kids bundle (spoiler alert: they’re ridiculously cute!). Whether it’s for their birthday, a special achievement, or just because, these cards make giving feel as exciting as getting.
Support women-owned businesses
Another New Year’s resolution you can actually keep—and feel amazing about—is supporting women-owned businesses with Unwrapped. Why? Because it feels incredible to know your gift is creating real, lasting change in the lives of women and their communities. Plus, you get a little boost of happiness as well.
Also—not to brag—but these cards are adorable gifts. Each one has its own charm, from the Handloom gift card supporting artisans to the Garden helping women cultivate fresh produce. And your recipient will love knowing their present is truly one of a kind.
Live more sustainably
Living more sustainably can feel like a challenge at first, especially when we’re so accustomed to the conveniences of modern life. But it doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing change!
A simple way to start is by choosing eco-friendly gifts that give back to the planet and its people. With Unwrapped’s sustainable gifts, you can take a meaningful first step toward greener living while making someone’s day extra special.
Consider the Fish gift card, which supports marine conservation efforts in the Mekong River, or the Clean Energy gift that helps communities transition to renewable energy sources. These gifts make it easy to take action for the environment.
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Take action
Sometimes, the best resolutions aren’t just about changing yourself—they’re about changing the world. This year, take action by standing up for causes that matter. Whether it’s advocating for fair wages, fighting climate change, or supporting global equity, small steps can lead to powerful transformations.
Stand with the women who make our clothes by adding your name to demand that big brands pay a living wage. Make your voice heard by calling on the government to make big corporations pay more taxes, support a fairer global economy, and stop giving subsidies to fossil fuel corporations. Every action you take helps build a world that’s fairer, greener, and brighter for everyone—and that’s a resolution worth keeping.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a meaningful way to connect with your community and contribute to the causes you care about most. Whether you have a few hours or a flexible schedule, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
With Oxfam, you can volunteer in the office or remotely, helping with research, supporter engagement, or campaigns. You can also try the Micro Volunteering Program for short, innovative projects that work around your life.
No matter how you contribute, you’ll be helping create a brighter, fairer future.
More Opportunities To Give Back at Unwrapped
Looking for even more ways to make a difference this year? Unwrapped has a whole range of thoughtful gift card options that let you give back while showing you care. Whether you’re supporting education, clean water, or healthcare, each gift is a powerful way to create change.
How To Buy A Charity Card
An Oxfam Unwrapped charity gift card is a practical and meaningful way to make a difference in the world.
Simply select a card type, choose your impact amount and we will post or email the gift on your behalf.
- Choose a gift card here.
- Customise your gift card with a personal message.
- Send your unique gift card via mail or email to your loved one.
Your donation goes to those who need it most.
