Gifts That Keep On Giving

By giving someone a gift of membership, you support the nonprofit while also encouraging participation and appreciation. Here, a sampling of local nonprofits with membership or gift-donation programs.

Membership in this land conservation group helps the nonprofit protect the watershed and create outdoor areas such as the Sakonnet Greenway Trail. ALT memberships begin at $30, and $15 (for those 25 years of age and under). Gift membership purchase comes with a choice of an ALT T-Shirt, ALT Hat, or ALT Water Bottle to present with membership card and letter for the holiday season.  Check the website, or call Courtney Huth, 401-849-2799, x 19, or email her at chuth@ailt.org.

With more than 300 acres and seven miles of hiking trails that lead to beautiful vistas toward the ocean, the Norman Bird Sanctuary, 583 Third Beach Road, is a local treasure. Annual membership dues directly fund the sanctuary’s conservation and environmental education programs; individual ($40); family ($55). Check the website, or call 401-846-2577.

An annual membership helps the Maher Center with its mission of serving developmentally disabled children and adults; it also entitles you to a 10% discount at the Maher Garden Center, 906 Aquidneck Avenue. Individual membership fees are $25 individual. Check the website or call 401-846-0340.

For a lasting holiday gift for a pet lover, this local animal shelter extraordinaire (87 Oliphant Lane) suggests that you donate a Kuranda dog bed or cat bed in the name of a friend or family member. A personalized Gift Card will be mailed to them to inform them of the wonderful gift you have selected for them. The beds range from $40-$65. Check the website or call 401-846-8276.