Skip to content

2025 Giving Tuesday Holiday Gift Guide

Purposeful Gifts from UnTours Foundation Investee Businesses

2025 Giving Tuesday Holiday Gift Guide

Categories
Christmas Untours Foundation

December 2, 2025 by Untours Travel

This Giving Tuesday, we’re shining a spotlight on the social enterprises and small businesses that are thriving because of you! This holiday gift guide is a celebration of their work. Choosing a gift from these businesses supports people who are building brighter futures, caring for the planet, and proving that business can be a force for good.

 

Giving Tuesday is a global invitation to practice generosity in ways that uplift one another and strengthen our shared humanity. It reminds us that everyone has something to offer and that every act of care matters. Whether we help a neighbor, support a cause close to our hearts, or choose gifts that create meaningful impact, generosity can be part of daily life.

 

At the UnTours Foundation, we embrace this vision through the entrepreneurs we champion. The businesses in this guide are all part of our investment community and reflect a shared commitment to sustainability, inclusion, and economic justice. These founders are creating jobs, restoring ecosystems, strengthening local cultures, and imagining new possibilities for their communities.

 

Access Trax

Portable Pathway System for Outdoor Accessibility

Access Trax creates lightweight, portable access mats that make beaches, parks, trails, and outdoor spaces navigable for wheelchair users and people with mobility challenges. Founder Kelly Twichel designed the system through her work as an occupational therapist and her experience supporting adaptive surfers who needed a dignified way to cross sand and uneven terrain.

 

Today, Access Trax is used by national parks, adaptive sports programs, tourism operators, events, and families. The mats fold easily, travel well, and create stable pathways that support inclusion and independent movement. Each purchase helps expand accessible outdoor recreation and encourages communities to design spaces that welcome everyone.

 

Gift Ideas

Access Trax 5-Mat Bundle
A set of durable, foldable mats that create a stable pathway across sand, gravel, dirt, and grass. A powerful gift that increases freedom and accessibility for outdoor adventurers.

 

Edenesque

Chef Crafted Plant-Based Milks

Edenesque produces plant-based milks made with whole, nutrient-rich ingredients sourced from sustainable farms in New York State. Founded by chef and holistic nutritionist Leslie Woodward, the company focuses on clean, intentional nutrition, free of gums, fillers, and refined sugars. Their oat and pistachio milks are crafted to support both flavor and performance using a zero-waste approach that honors every ingredient.

 

Edenesque invests deeply in community wellbeing through its Food Insecurity Initiative. The program donates nutritious milks weekly, partners with local farms and nonprofits, and strengthens regional food systems with a circular model that supports farmers, families, and community organizations. Edenesque also creates inclusive employment pathways for people with disabilities and justice-impacted team members, reflecting a commitment to dignity, healing, and equitable opportunity.

 

Gift Ideas

Barista Blend Oat Milk
A rich and creamy oat milk crafted with whole ingredients and designed for excellent performance in lattes and home coffee rituals. A thoughtful gift for coffee lovers and an easy way to support a mission-driven food company.

 

Knotty Tie

Refugee Made Custom Ties, Scarves, and Accessories

Knotty Tie creates custom ties, scarves, and accessories while providing fair and stable employment for resettled refugees in Denver. Their team includes artisans from Syria, Congo, Mauritania, Eritrea, Cameroon, and other countries who bring deep sewing expertise and craft knowledge. Many were skilled makers before displacement, and Knotty Tie offers living wages, skills development, English language support, and long-term career pathways.

 

The company has now paid more than two million dollars in wages to refugee staff and continues to demonstrate how ethical manufacturing can strengthen families, restore confidence, and help new arrivals build stable futures. Each product reflects the skill and care of artisans rebuilding their lives in a supportive and dignified workplace.

 

Gift Ideas

Custom Bow Tie
A made to order bow tie crafted in Denver by refugee artisans. This gift supports fair employment, skill building, and sustainable production while offering a timeless accessory that can be customized to any color or occasion.

Custom Hair Scarf
A versatile, customizable hair scarf created using recycled materials and sewn by Knotty Tie’s artisan team. This is a thoughtful way to support refugee makers while gifting something practical, personal, and beautifully crafted.

 

Kreyol Essence

Haitian Plant-Based Beauty Products

Kreyol Essence creates natural beauty products made from Haitian black castor oil, moringa, and other botanicals grown by small farmers across Haiti. Founder Yve Car Momperousse built the company to generate stable jobs and living wages in a country where women face high unemployment and limited economic opportunity. Today, more than 90% of the team are women who use their income to support families, access education, and build long-term stability.

 

The company strengthens Haiti’s rural economy through agribusiness, soil restoration, and reforestation. By planting castor trees, cultivating raw ingredients, and exporting finished products, Kreyol Essence improves ecosystems while creating pathways out of poverty. Every purchase directly supports Haitian farmers and women producers who are building a more resilient future.

 

Gift Ideas

Haitian Black Castor Oil Trio
A curated set of three handcrafted castor oils, each made in Haiti using traditional roasting and extraction methods. The trio includes Rosemary Peppermint for scalp stimulation, Lavender Hibiscus for soothing hydration, and Mango Papaya Coconut for lightweight moisture with a tropical scent. This gift supports women producers, regenerative farming, and sustainable income for Haitian families.

 

Ocean Sole Africa

Art and Décor Made from Recycled Flip Flops

Ocean Sole Africa turns discarded flip flops collected along Kenya’s beaches and waterways into vibrant handcrafted sculptures and home décor. The enterprise removes millions of flip flops from the environment each year and provides income for nearly one thousand community members involved in collecting, cleaning, and carving the pieces. Their work restores coastal ecosystems, reduces plastic pollution, and creates stable employment in communities that rely on healthy oceans.

 

Every sculpture and ornament is made by hand, transforming ocean waste into joyful art that reflects creativity, environmental care, and Kenyan craftsmanship.

 

Gift Ideas

Full Christmas Tree Set
A complete assortment of handcrafted flip flop ornaments including animals, stars, candy canes, and more. This set fills an entire tree with color, story, and purpose while directly supporting ocean conservation and artisan income in Kenya.

Safari Christmas Ornament Set (Set of 5)
A bright collection of small ornaments made from reclaimed flip flops. Each piece is unique, lightweight, and full of character, offering a fun and sustainable option for holiday decorating.

Reindeer Hanging Christmas Ornament
A festive and colorful ornament handcrafted from upcycled flip flops. A cheerful addition to any tree and a meaningful way to support ocean cleanup and artisan livelihoods.

 

One One Cacao

Jamaican Single Origin Craft Chocolate

One One Cacao partners with 60 smallholder farmers across rural Jamaica who grow cacao in agroforestry systems that blend cacao trees with crops like coffee, plantains, and yams. These methods protect biodiversity, stabilize soil, and support long term ecosystem resilience. Founder Nick Davis pays farmers above market rates, often nearly double the global price, which strengthens rural incomes and preserves Jamaica’s heirloom cacao traditions.

 

This past year’s hurricane season created serious setbacks for Jamaican farms. Purchasing from One One Cacao directly supports farmers who are rebuilding their fields, restoring tree cover, and recovering their livelihoods. The company also welcomes visitors through farm tours and hands-on workshops that celebrate Jamaican food heritage and local craft.

 

Gift Ideas

Cocoa Tea
A Caribbean classic blended with warm spices and dark chocolate. A comforting choice for winter and a thoughtful way to support climate-affected farming communities in Jamaica.

St. Thomas 71% Chocolate Bar
An award winning single origin bar made with rare cacao from Johnson’s Mountain in St. Thomas. This bar received an Academy of Chocolate Award in 2020 and is known for its nutty, biscuit-like complexity. It is crafted from some of the most prized and limited cacao grown in the world. 

 

Pachamama Coffee

Farmer Owned, Organic, Regenerative Coffee

Pachamama Coffee is the only US roaster fully owned by the smallholder farmers who grow the beans. Their cooperative model ensures profits return to families in Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, and Ethiopia. The coffee is organic, shade grown, and cultivated with farming practices that protect soil health and local ecosystems.

 

Through cooperative ownership, farmers invest in gender equity programs, youth scholarships, health brigades, and climate resilience across their communities. Pachamama’s approach creates stable incomes, stronger local economies, and a more transparent coffee supply chain.

 

Gift Ideas

Farmer Owned Tote and Coffee Gift Bundle
A simple and meaningful set that pairs a durable cotton tote with a 10 oz bag of organic whole bean coffee. A great choice for anyone who cares about ethical sourcing and farmer ownership.

Cosecha No. 20 Holiday Blend
A seasonal blend created for winter gatherings, offering a warm and comforting profile. Ideal for gifting on its own or paired with the farmer owned tote.

 

PashooPakshee

Handcrafted Goods by Women Artisans in India

PashooPakshee creates handcrafted souvenirs and artisan products made by women living near India’s protected forests and rural communities. The enterprise trains women to produce beautifully made toys, accessories, and wildlife inspired crafts that reflect local culture and biodiversity. By earning reliable income, artisans are able to delay early marriage, invest in their children’s education, and reduce dependence on forest foraging, which helps decrease human wildlife conflict and strengthens conservation efforts.

PashooPakshee’s model creates economic independence for women who have historically been excluded from tourism related jobs. Each piece is thoughtfully handmade and directly supports community resilience in regions where work opportunities for women are limited.

 

Gift Ideas

Ojus the Octopus Khadi Toy
A soft, earth toned toy made from traditional Khadi fabric and stuffed with natural, hypoallergenic fibers. Each toy is handmade by women artisans and reflects both cultural craftsmanship and environmental care.

Owl Backpack
A durable cotton canvas backpack crafted by women from marginalized communities. This practical accessory supports fair income opportunities and brings a touch of Indian wildlife inspired design to everyday use.

Common Tiger Butterfly Coconut Shell Earrings
Lightweight, hand painted earrings made from biodegradable coconut shell wood. A unique and eco friendly accessory that supports women artisans while showcasing India’s natural beauty.

 

Peaceful Fruits

Real Fruit Snacks with Inclusive Employment

Peaceful Fruits makes fruit snacks using only whole fruit with no added sugar, dyes, or artificial sweeteners. Their production team includes adults with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges who earn full wage, supportive employment. This model creates meaningful jobs, builds confidence, and provides long-term stability for people who are often excluded from traditional work environments.

Through the Peaceful Fruits Foundation, the company also invests in youth mental health education and community wellness programs. Every snack supports both healthy eating and inclusive economic opportunity.

 

Gift Ideas

Fruit Tape Sampler
A fun and flavorful sampler featuring four different fruit tape varieties made entirely from real fruit. A family friendly gift that supports inclusive employment and brings a burst of natural sweetness to lunchboxes and stockings.

Original Fruit Strips Variety Pack
A set of whole-fruit strips available in multiple flavors. A simple, nutritious treat that makes great classroom gifts, stocking stuffers, or on-the-go snacks while supporting meaningful jobs in the community.

 

Senda Athletics

Fair Trade Soccer Balls and Gear

Senda Athletics creates Fair Trade certified soccer balls and gear that support fair wages, safe working conditions, and long-term income stability for artisans. Founded by Argentina-raised Santiago Halty, Senda was built on a belief that soccer should uplift communities, celebrate creativity, and be accessible anywhere. The company donates one percent of every purchase to youth sports organizations that use play to build leadership, confidence, and belonging.

Senda’s products are crafted with quality in mind, from street and futsal balls to beach and match balls. Each ball represents a commitment to joyful play and ethical production.

 

Gift Ideas

Rio Match Futsal Ball
A best-in-class futsal ball designed for excellent control on hard courts. A thoughtful gift for futsal players that also supports Fair Trade production and artisan livelihoods.

Playa Beach Soccer Ball
A soft, barefoot-friendly ball designed for sand play. A great option for beach athletes and a meaningful way to support ethically made sports gear.

Apex Match Soccer Ball
A high-quality match ball crafted for consistent performance on grass and turf. Ideal for dedicated players and a gift that reflects both excellence and Fair Trade values.

 

Wearsos

Upcycled Travel Accessories Made by Women in Costa Rica

Wearsos transforms retired airline seats and plant based materials into durable travel accessories while creating meaningful employment for women in rural Costa Rica. Each product is crafted by artisans who receive living wages, mental health support, and personal development opportunities. The company was founded through a partnership with Southwest Airlines’ Repurpose with Purpose program and has grown into a community led enterprise that diverts tons of leather and foam from landfills.

Wearsos also hosts experiential learning programs that introduce students and travelers to circular economy principles, ethical fashion, and regenerative community development. Their model uplifts women who face limited job opportunities and turns waste into opportunity through thoughtful design and social impact.

 

Gift Ideas

The Katarina Crossbody Bag
A vibrant crossbody bag made from Piñatex, a plant based material created from pineapple fibers. Each bag is sewn by women artisans in Turrialba and reflects Wearsos’ mission to pair sustainable fashion with economic empowerment.

Do Good Luggage Tag
A minimalist luggage tag made from upcycled airline seat materials. A small but meaningful gift that stands for conscious travel and supports steady income for women makers.

Teresa’s Pink Reversible Cloud Checker Tote
A colorful, versatile tote crafted by Wearsos artisans using upcycled materials. A practical accessory that also helps reduce waste and create opportunities for women in rural Costa Rica.

 

Yellow Leaf Hammocks

Handwoven Hammocks from Indigenous Women Artisans in Thailand

Yellow Leaf Hammocks partners with the Mlabri people of Northern Thailand, an Indigenous community historically pushed to the margins of the formal economy. Hammock weaving provides steady income, educational opportunities, and long term financial independence for families transitioning away from poverty and unstable agricultural work. Each hammock is meticulously handwoven by women artisans, allowing them to become primary earners, support their children’s health and education, and invest in community improvements.

Yellow Leaf’s model cuts out the middleman, ensuring money goes directly to the artisans who weave each hammock. The result is a blend of exceptional craftsmanship and meaningful social impact that strengthens entire weaving communities.

 

Gift Ideas

The VISTA Hammock Chair
A portable hammock chair paired with a lightweight stand. Each chair is handwoven by Mlabri artisans and offers full body relaxation while supporting ongoing employment for weaving mothers in Northern Thailand.

Signature Hammock
An ultra soft, all-weather hammock woven with more than 100,000 loops. Each hammock is signed by the artisan who made it and provides a stable, flexible source of income that helps Mlabri families build brighter futures.

 

Young Mountain Tea

Smallholder Grown Himalayan Teas

Young Mountain Tea partners with smallholder farmers across the Himalayan region to revive abandoned tea gardens, restore ecological balance, and build stable incomes for rural families. Many of the farmers are women who now participate in tea processing, cooperative leadership, and decision-making roles that were previously inaccessible. By focusing on regenerative agriculture and transparent supply chains, Young Mountain Tea helps strengthen mountain communities, reduce outward migration, and create long-term economic opportunity in remote regions.

 

Gift Ideas

Loose-Leaf Tea Starter Bundle
A curated trio of white, green, and black teas from India and Nepal. This bundle introduces drinkers to emerging Himalayan tea regions and directly supports smallholder farmers who are revitalizing historic tea lands and developing community-led cooperatives.

 

Happy Giving Tuesday! Learn more about the UnTours Foundation and our portfolio of changemaking investments.