Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
No items found.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Conscious Giving
December 10, 2021
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Text: Zoe Adlersberg
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Conscious Giving
HASSON
December 10, 2021
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Text: Zoe Adlersberg
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
No items found.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Conscious Giving
December 10, 2021
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Text: Zoe Adlersberg
No items found.
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Pink
frost
Thistle
brown
December 10, 2021
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Text: Zoe Adlersberg
Super talented stylist-turned-photographer Thistle Browne and stylist Heathermary Jackson — both in New Zealand during COVID-19 lockdowns — traveled to Rangitoto Island, a dormant volcano off the coast of Central Auckland, to shoot the new campaign for New Zealand jewelry designer Jasmin Sparrow. The shoot showcases Sparrow’s timeless gold and silver jewelry, and a beautiful collection of hand-beaded bras and skull caps designed with Glen Prentice. Models wore mainly vintage from Search and Destroy and Brownstone Cowboys’ collection, combined with some local, sustainable brands and New Zealand gumboots (rainboots).
Photography:Thistle Brown Styling:Heathermary Jackson Designers: Jasmin Sparrow and Glen Prentice Models: Charlotte Moffatt, Nina Katungi, Obadiah Russon
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
Sarah Gidick @pornforwomen Occupation: Social Media Strategist and Writer
Holidays you celebrate? Christmas
Charities you support? Sheldrick Wildlife Trust- This organization raises orphaned wildlife (primarily elephants) that have lost their mothers to poaching. It's the world's most successful elephant rescue and rehabilitation program - something everyone can get on board with.
Businesses you support? I am a huge fan of Susanna Chow This mother-daughter duo lovingly craft the most whimsical, beautiful beaded accessories - everything is made by hand and each item is super special. Épice, created by Danish designers, is another small brand I love. Their scarves are beautiful, high quality and unique - expect loads of compliments. For jewelry, I can't get enough of Maria Black. Her Liv hoops are the most perfect, lightweight earrings to ever exist.
Other advice? In the spirit of sustainability and thoughtfulness, I think it's best to give things that the recipient will actually love and use. I seek out items that are well-made and often have a charming story behind them. I'm lucky to live in Paris and be able to visit a brocante (flea market) to find gifts like vintage tiaras (for your Miu Miu obsessed friend) or silver toast caddy gifted with "Poilâne," a must-have cookbook by the world-famous bread bakery. You don't need to spend a lot to make an impact -- just put some thought into it.
Charities you support? Any charity that people want to support helps and is a super thoughtful gift to give someone for Christmas. I particularly like Trees that Count - Te Rahi o Tane. I like it for Christmas because at this time of year there is so much consumerism and travelling, and our carbon footprint balloons in size. It’s a good way to help mitigate that effect directly. Trees that count is a New Zealand one, but there are similar ones in all countries
Businesses to support? My favorite thing, person and brand is called Lucky Dip. It’s by my friend Tuhi and he makes shirts from reclaimed and recycled fabrics. He makes them himself, locally here in New Zealand. They are incredible
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Not for religious reasons, we are atheists as a couple, but for cultural fun because we have 5-year-old twins. We get a tree and decorate the house. We exchange gifts but we also do a lot for our community and give to charity and teach our little ones the importance of being useful and helpful in society.
Charities you support? We get calendars from Advent of Change and we contribute money gifts to womankind worldwide. We also do an advent food box which is 25 days of collecting food to donate to a women and children's shelter near where we live as well as do a clothing and toy drive.
Businesses you support? We are supporting local community business and artisanal crafts fairs by buying from them so as to keep local and help our community and local economy.
Other sustainable ideas? We make cakes/pies /chutneys and jams to give to friends and loved ones.
Other advice? Less is more for us. We don't need anything. We do give gifts to people who work for us and our colleagues as gestures of love. We try to just give for the children or grandparents and would rather help our community.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Conscious Giving
December 10, 2021
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Text: Zoe Adlersberg
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
Sarah Gidick @pornforwomen Occupation: Social Media Strategist and Writer
Holidays you celebrate? Christmas
Charities you support? Sheldrick Wildlife Trust- This organization raises orphaned wildlife (primarily elephants) that have lost their mothers to poaching. It's the world's most successful elephant rescue and rehabilitation program - something everyone can get on board with.
Businesses you support? I am a huge fan of Susanna Chow This mother-daughter duo lovingly craft the most whimsical, beautiful beaded accessories - everything is made by hand and each item is super special. Épice, created by Danish designers, is another small brand I love. Their scarves are beautiful, high quality and unique - expect loads of compliments. For jewelry, I can't get enough of Maria Black. Her Liv hoops are the most perfect, lightweight earrings to ever exist.
Other advice? In the spirit of sustainability and thoughtfulness, I think it's best to give things that the recipient will actually love and use. I seek out items that are well-made and often have a charming story behind them. I'm lucky to live in Paris and be able to visit a brocante (flea market) to find gifts like vintage tiaras (for your Miu Miu obsessed friend) or silver toast caddy gifted with "Poilâne," a must-have cookbook by the world-famous bread bakery. You don't need to spend a lot to make an impact -- just put some thought into it.
Charities you support? Any charity that people want to support helps and is a super thoughtful gift to give someone for Christmas. I particularly like Trees that Count - Te Rahi o Tane. I like it for Christmas because at this time of year there is so much consumerism and travelling, and our carbon footprint balloons in size. It’s a good way to help mitigate that effect directly. Trees that count is a New Zealand one, but there are similar ones in all countries
Businesses to support? My favorite thing, person and brand is called Lucky Dip. It’s by my friend Tuhi and he makes shirts from reclaimed and recycled fabrics. He makes them himself, locally here in New Zealand. They are incredible
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Not for religious reasons, we are atheists as a couple, but for cultural fun because we have 5-year-old twins. We get a tree and decorate the house. We exchange gifts but we also do a lot for our community and give to charity and teach our little ones the importance of being useful and helpful in society.
Charities you support? We get calendars from Advent of Change and we contribute money gifts to womankind worldwide. We also do an advent food box which is 25 days of collecting food to donate to a women and children's shelter near where we live as well as do a clothing and toy drive.
Businesses you support? We are supporting local community business and artisanal crafts fairs by buying from them so as to keep local and help our community and local economy.
Other sustainable ideas? We make cakes/pies /chutneys and jams to give to friends and loved ones.
Other advice? Less is more for us. We don't need anything. We do give gifts to people who work for us and our colleagues as gestures of love. We try to just give for the children or grandparents and would rather help our community.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Conscious Giving
December 10, 2021
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Text: Zoe Adlersberg
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Conscious Giving
December 10, 2021
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Text: Zoe Adlersberg
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
Sarah Gidick @pornforwomen Occupation: Social Media Strategist and Writer
Holidays you celebrate? Christmas
Charities you support? Sheldrick Wildlife Trust- This organization raises orphaned wildlife (primarily elephants) that have lost their mothers to poaching. It's the world's most successful elephant rescue and rehabilitation program - something everyone can get on board with.
Businesses you support? I am a huge fan of Susanna Chow This mother-daughter duo lovingly craft the most whimsical, beautiful beaded accessories - everything is made by hand and each item is super special. Épice, created by Danish designers, is another small brand I love. Their scarves are beautiful, high quality and unique - expect loads of compliments. For jewelry, I can't get enough of Maria Black. Her Liv hoops are the most perfect, lightweight earrings to ever exist.
Other advice? In the spirit of sustainability and thoughtfulness, I think it's best to give things that the recipient will actually love and use. I seek out items that are well-made and often have a charming story behind them. I'm lucky to live in Paris and be able to visit a brocante (flea market) to find gifts like vintage tiaras (for your Miu Miu obsessed friend) or silver toast caddy gifted with "Poilâne," a must-have cookbook by the world-famous bread bakery. You don't need to spend a lot to make an impact -- just put some thought into it.
Charities you support? Any charity that people want to support helps and is a super thoughtful gift to give someone for Christmas. I particularly like Trees that Count - Te Rahi o Tane. I like it for Christmas because at this time of year there is so much consumerism and travelling, and our carbon footprint balloons in size. It’s a good way to help mitigate that effect directly. Trees that count is a New Zealand one, but there are similar ones in all countries
Businesses to support? My favorite thing, person and brand is called Lucky Dip. It’s by my friend Tuhi and he makes shirts from reclaimed and recycled fabrics. He makes them himself, locally here in New Zealand. They are incredible
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Not for religious reasons, we are atheists as a couple, but for cultural fun because we have 5-year-old twins. We get a tree and decorate the house. We exchange gifts but we also do a lot for our community and give to charity and teach our little ones the importance of being useful and helpful in society.
Charities you support? We get calendars from Advent of Change and we contribute money gifts to womankind worldwide. We also do an advent food box which is 25 days of collecting food to donate to a women and children's shelter near where we live as well as do a clothing and toy drive.
Businesses you support? We are supporting local community business and artisanal crafts fairs by buying from them so as to keep local and help our community and local economy.
Other sustainable ideas? We make cakes/pies /chutneys and jams to give to friends and loved ones.
Other advice? Less is more for us. We don't need anything. We do give gifts to people who work for us and our colleagues as gestures of love. We try to just give for the children or grandparents and would rather help our community.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Conscious Giving
SOCIAL JUSTICE
October 11, 2023
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Conscious Giving
December 10, 2021
Text: Zoe Adlersberg
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
Sarah Gidick @pornforwomen Occupation: Social Media Strategist and Writer
Holidays you celebrate? Christmas
Charities you support? Sheldrick Wildlife Trust- This organization raises orphaned wildlife (primarily elephants) that have lost their mothers to poaching. It's the world's most successful elephant rescue and rehabilitation program - something everyone can get on board with.
Businesses you support? I am a huge fan of Susanna Chow This mother-daughter duo lovingly craft the most whimsical, beautiful beaded accessories - everything is made by hand and each item is super special. Épice, created by Danish designers, is another small brand I love. Their scarves are beautiful, high quality and unique - expect loads of compliments. For jewelry, I can't get enough of Maria Black. Her Liv hoops are the most perfect, lightweight earrings to ever exist.
Other advice? In the spirit of sustainability and thoughtfulness, I think it's best to give things that the recipient will actually love and use. I seek out items that are well-made and often have a charming story behind them. I'm lucky to live in Paris and be able to visit a brocante (flea market) to find gifts like vintage tiaras (for your Miu Miu obsessed friend) or silver toast caddy gifted with "Poilâne," a must-have cookbook by the world-famous bread bakery. You don't need to spend a lot to make an impact -- just put some thought into it.
Charities you support? Any charity that people want to support helps and is a super thoughtful gift to give someone for Christmas. I particularly like Trees that Count - Te Rahi o Tane. I like it for Christmas because at this time of year there is so much consumerism and travelling, and our carbon footprint balloons in size. It’s a good way to help mitigate that effect directly. Trees that count is a New Zealand one, but there are similar ones in all countries
Businesses to support? My favorite thing, person and brand is called Lucky Dip. It’s by my friend Tuhi and he makes shirts from reclaimed and recycled fabrics. He makes them himself, locally here in New Zealand. They are incredible
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Not for religious reasons, we are atheists as a couple, but for cultural fun because we have 5-year-old twins. We get a tree and decorate the house. We exchange gifts but we also do a lot for our community and give to charity and teach our little ones the importance of being useful and helpful in society.
Charities you support? We get calendars from Advent of Change and we contribute money gifts to womankind worldwide. We also do an advent food box which is 25 days of collecting food to donate to a women and children's shelter near where we live as well as do a clothing and toy drive.
Businesses you support? We are supporting local community business and artisanal crafts fairs by buying from them so as to keep local and help our community and local economy.
Other sustainable ideas? We make cakes/pies /chutneys and jams to give to friends and loved ones.
Other advice? Less is more for us. We don't need anything. We do give gifts to people who work for us and our colleagues as gestures of love. We try to just give for the children or grandparents and would rather help our community.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
Let’s be honest here… it’s been a crazy couple of years.
But in the midst of all of the difficulties, the injustices, the inequities and even the pandemic, we have been amazed, energized and inspired by the incredible work so many people are doing to move the world in a more positive direction, to allow space for all voices to be both heard and considered. To focus our attention on love, beauty, hope and community, in what can often feel like an uncaring world.
The year-end holidays are an amazing time to uplift this love and positivity by making sure that our holiday gift giving feels intentional, and to conscientiously consider how and where we spend our money. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned at Brownstone Cowboys— it’s that it takes a village to do anything worthwhile. So we put our heads together, and asked our community for ideas on how they approach the holidays and giving in a conscious way.
We’re totally inspired by these ideas and hope you will be too!
Holidays you celebrate? Our family isn't religious so we really just celebrate the holiday of being together and enjoying the rare time where we are all in the same place with each other!
Businesses you support? I'll probably do some shopping at the stores in Chinatown because I know they were really hurting during the pandemic and a lot of them have shut down. There's a great ceramics store on Bowery in Chinatown that I love popping into.
Other sustainable ideas? I really love shopping second hand for gifts! There's something about it that feels really special and a lot of times the people around me are always talking about wanting some.
Organizations you support? My friend Asmeret Berhe-Lumax created the One Love Community Fridge, an initiative to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges throughout Brooklyn and expanding these efforts by adding new fridges.
Businesses to support? I usually look to support local businesses, and young artisans. This season, the ceramics of Minh Singer are so special, the artist Maia Ruth Lee has a curated vintage account on instagram the___spiral. I love her eye and always find unique pieces I want to share with others. I also always get some Everyday Oil for friends and family. I love it all year round and the smell is the best!
Other sustainable ideas? The holidays are really about family and friends and coming together with lots of love and gratitude. I love giving, so I think a lot about intentional gifting and tend to choose experiences over things. When I do choose an item, I start with The Real Real as a source, of course. We now carry the Swedish brand Melyon and love the soaps as a gift. I also love the selection of ceramics and art we have.
I've also been getting into making organic herbal teas that I love to put in vintage glass jars and gift them wrapped in found vintage scarves.
Holidays you celebrate? I celebrate all the holidays. Love me a holiday.
Charities you support? Charity-wise I’m big on the environment and protecting land. It’s in my blood and my family has been fighting for it since I was a child. Patagonia always has a great list of charities as there are so many to give to that need help. As well I feel we really neglected the entire Afghani population-- not just when we left, but in general, especially the children. Again, there are so many charities trying to help do good things, but also some not so good ones. The NYT has a solid list of trustworthy charities.
Businesses you support? Support your local anything in my opinion - wherever you are support local farmers, artisans, etc.
Other advice? Holidays are hard but also a time to realize they aren’t necessarily about you but about the people around you. A time to help thy neighbor, the family, the poor. The more you give the more you get back. One love.
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Mostly for my 9-year-old who still believes in Santa.
Organizations you support? Right now I'm particularly concerned about the plight of mothers, so I would give to Marshall Plan For Moms.
Businesses to support? I think where possible we should all support local businesses. So many were decimated by the pandemic. Or women owned businesses who are generally underfunded. Ideally you can find one that ticks both boxes. One of my favorite artisanal brands is Studio 189. Brooklyn based, female founders, manufactured by artisans in Ghana.
Other sustainable ideas? Rather than buying yet another useless candle, maybe donate cash to support someone's dreams and aspirations. My friend and filmmaker Deborah Anderson is raising funds via Indiegogo to self distribute a beautiful documentary she made, Women Of The White Buffalo. Feels so good to support something that’s personally meaningful.
Other sustainable ideas? I like to gift with experiences instead of physical objects. Take your loved ones on a trip, go do something you’ve never had the time or gotten around to doing yet. Create a gift with a beautiful memory.
Occupation: Make-up Artist, Entrepreneur and Founder of we are neen beauty
Charities you support? I have one organization that I try to support, Feed the streets LA , as they really are super hands on the ground out in Hollywood assisting the unhoused. They have real interactions with the communities they serve. They ask them if they need anything in particular - often it’s tents, tarps sleeping bags - and make sure they drop it off to the actual individual. I have volunteered with them and the unhoused community feel seen and heard by them.
I think it’s important to find an organization you either individually support or listen to the person you are giving to and find something that you know is important to them... take the time and give in line with the recipients' interest.
I also use Double Dutch Cash as they make charitable giving super cool and easy. The virtual cards you receive with the donation and messages are super awesome.
Other advice? There is nothing worse than last minute panic shopping where you are just picking up anything to knock it off the list. Our over consumption is staggering and remember its actually the thought that matters. I personally would rather see someone give a donation or use Double Dutch Cash To me that is really being thoughtful.
Sarah Gidick @pornforwomen Occupation: Social Media Strategist and Writer
Holidays you celebrate? Christmas
Charities you support? Sheldrick Wildlife Trust- This organization raises orphaned wildlife (primarily elephants) that have lost their mothers to poaching. It's the world's most successful elephant rescue and rehabilitation program - something everyone can get on board with.
Businesses you support? I am a huge fan of Susanna Chow This mother-daughter duo lovingly craft the most whimsical, beautiful beaded accessories - everything is made by hand and each item is super special. Épice, created by Danish designers, is another small brand I love. Their scarves are beautiful, high quality and unique - expect loads of compliments. For jewelry, I can't get enough of Maria Black. Her Liv hoops are the most perfect, lightweight earrings to ever exist.
Other advice? In the spirit of sustainability and thoughtfulness, I think it's best to give things that the recipient will actually love and use. I seek out items that are well-made and often have a charming story behind them. I'm lucky to live in Paris and be able to visit a brocante (flea market) to find gifts like vintage tiaras (for your Miu Miu obsessed friend) or silver toast caddy gifted with "Poilâne," a must-have cookbook by the world-famous bread bakery. You don't need to spend a lot to make an impact -- just put some thought into it.
Charities you support? Any charity that people want to support helps and is a super thoughtful gift to give someone for Christmas. I particularly like Trees that Count - Te Rahi o Tane. I like it for Christmas because at this time of year there is so much consumerism and travelling, and our carbon footprint balloons in size. It’s a good way to help mitigate that effect directly. Trees that count is a New Zealand one, but there are similar ones in all countries
Businesses to support? My favorite thing, person and brand is called Lucky Dip. It’s by my friend Tuhi and he makes shirts from reclaimed and recycled fabrics. He makes them himself, locally here in New Zealand. They are incredible
Holidays you celebrate? We celebrate Christmas. Not for religious reasons, we are atheists as a couple, but for cultural fun because we have 5-year-old twins. We get a tree and decorate the house. We exchange gifts but we also do a lot for our community and give to charity and teach our little ones the importance of being useful and helpful in society.
Charities you support? We get calendars from Advent of Change and we contribute money gifts to womankind worldwide. We also do an advent food box which is 25 days of collecting food to donate to a women and children's shelter near where we live as well as do a clothing and toy drive.
Businesses you support? We are supporting local community business and artisanal crafts fairs by buying from them so as to keep local and help our community and local economy.
Other sustainable ideas? We make cakes/pies /chutneys and jams to give to friends and loved ones.
Other advice? Less is more for us. We don't need anything. We do give gifts to people who work for us and our colleagues as gestures of love. We try to just give for the children or grandparents and would rather help our community.
MORE CHARITY IDEAS FROM THE BROWNSTONE COWBOYS MAGAZINE TEAM
We are always learning about amazing organizations from our wonderful contributors and our community. We would love to promote the good they are doing and have listed them below.❤️
If there are other one’s you think we should add, please email us at contact@brownstonecowboys.com and tell us! We will be updating our list all the time and would love to hear about other inspirational organizations doing good in the world!
Based in Kenya, they work with early adolescent girls to teach the skills needed so they can be in charge of their own futures and create positive and lasting social transformation.
AAF is the reproductive rights joint that uses humor and outrage to fight back online and on the ground against enemies of reproductive freedom. They describe themselves as a coven of hilarious badass feminists who use humor and pop culture to expose the haters fighting against reproductive rights.
Empowering women and children through community programs to elevate health and livelihood in India & U.S. Everything from sanitary napkin programs to computer classes, summer camps and student volunteer programs.
The Alliance for Quality Education is a coalition mobilizing communities across the state to keep New York true to its promise of ensuring a high-quality public education to all students regardless of zip code.
Fundraising Organization supporting refugees and displaced people globally. Through Choose Love, you can give gifts with heart directly to those who need it most.
A collective of organizations & community activists who've come together to help build a solid infrastructure for a Haitian community and assist all Black Immigrants
The Okra Project is a collective that seeks to address the global crisis faced by Black Trans people by bringing home cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals and resources to Black Trans People wherever we can reach them.
My Friend’s Place offers a comprehensive continuum of services to 1,000 youth experiencing homelessness between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children, each year, helping our young people who are experiencing homelessness to move toward wellness, stability and self-sufficiency.
Advancing Real Change, Inc. promotes justice by ensuring that the life histories of people charged with crimes are at the forefront of their cases. They serve as mitigation specialists on defense teams for indigent clients facing extreme sentences.
The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.
-poster-00001.jpg)
