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Social Impact Gift Guide – Shop 80+ gifts for good!

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The 2024 edition of our annual LA2050 Social Impact Gift Guide features 80+ products and experiences sourced from local nonprofits, sustainable makers, cultural establishments, and BIPOC-owned businesses. There’s something for everyone on your list – including you! – at a wide range of price points.

Browse all of this year’s featured gifts, below.

Rainbow Dango Mochi from Fugetsu-Do ($7)

Fugetsu-Do is a family-owned mochi and manju sweet shop in Little Tokyo, creating the finest Japanese mochi and manju in Los Angeles since 1903.

Bud Vase from People's Pottery Project ($60)

People’s Pottery Project, a 2021 and 2023 Grants Challenge winner, employs and empowers formerly incarcerated women, trans, and nonbinary individuals through paid training, access to healing community, and meaningful employment in its collective non-profit ceramics business.

Superbloom Bandana from Theodore Payne Foundation ($24)

The Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers & Native Plants, a 2022 Grants Challenge winner, inspires and educates Southern Californians about the beauty and ecological benefits of native plants.

Fujita Soft Cover Notebook from Library Foundation of Los Angeles ($15)

The Library Store, located inside the historic Los Angeles Central Library, offers a curated selection of unique merchandise. The non-profit gift shop supports free programs, resources, and services provided by the Los Angeles Public Library.

Spark Family Fun Set from 826LA Time Travel Mart ($13)

A 2013 Grants Challenge winner, 826LA supports Los Angeles students' creative and expository writing skills while also inspiring student-authored works through its storefront, the whimsical Time Travel Mart, and its publishing arm, Barnacle & Barnacle.

The SalviSoul Cookbook: Salvadoran Recipes and the Women Who Preserve Them by Karla Tatiana Vasquez from Now Serving LA ($35)

Now Serving LA is a cookbook and culinary shop in Los Angeles, located in Chinatown, promoting a diverse range of recipes across cultures and flavor.

Lotus Tea Infuser from Japanese American National Museum ($10)

The Japanese American National Museum seeks to foster understanding of America's cultural diversity by sharing the Japanese American experience through exhibitions, educational programs, documentaries, and curriculum.

Slauson Signature Coffee Blend from Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen ($19)

Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen’s mission is to bring quality ingredients and good vibes to the communities we serve in an environment conducive to creativity, community, and connection.

Two Weeks Unlimited (New Student) from People's Yoga ($49)

Owned, operated, and powered by women of color, People's Yoga invests in shifting wellness culture – where movement meets cariño and community meets corazón.

Woven Rope Stool in Blue + Brown from NEOCOCO ($190)

NEOCOCO Collective is a women-led social enterprise founded for the sole purpose of creating jobs for women resettling in Los Angeles through the art of hand embroidery.

2025 Verso Radical Diary & Weekly Planner from Tía Chucha's Cultural and Bookstore ($20)

Tia Chucha’s Centro Cultural & Bookstore, a 2024 Grants Challenge winner, offers culturally relevant books and literacy programs focused on Xicanx, Latinx, and social justice themes. Through diverse programs and a specialized collection, the bookstore aims to foster literacy and cultural connection within the local BIPOC community.

Pumpkin Seed Toffee from Valerie Confections ($24)

Started in 2004, Valerie Confections quickly became synonymous with luxury chocolate, and nearly 20 years later, it has grown exponentially to include truffles, baked goods, and even a neighborhood cafe. In addition to being a beloved LA brand, Valerie Confections is recognized as one of the best confectioners and chocolatiers in the country.

Brown Card Case from Amano Goods ($135)

Amano is a designer-owned leather workshop where each product is handcrafted on-site using a mix of traditional and modern techniques, ensuring durability and a lifetime guarantee on workmanship.

Enamel Pin - Turtle on a Scooter from CicLAvia ($10)

CicLAvia, a 2013 and 2021 Grants Challenge winner, promotes vibrant public spaces, active transportation, and health by organizing car-free street events. Through these events, CicLAvia fosters stronger connections within communities and encourages a reimagining of urban spaces.

Monarch Butterfly Mini Hooked Pillow from The Huntington Store ($20)

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a research and cultural center in San Marino with 120 acres of botanical gardens, an art museum, a library of rare books, and much more.

Limited Edition "Crenshaw" Skateboard from The Marathon Clothing ($150)

Nipsey Hussle's Marathon Clothing opened its doors at the corner of Crenshaw Blvd. and Slauson Ave in 2017. While the brick and mortar location closed after his passing, Marathon Clothing continues through its online store.

Gradient Dominos from Getty Museum ($40)

Getty is a leading global arts organization committed to exhibiting, conserving, and understanding the world’s artistic and cultural heritage. Based in LA, Getty pursues its work with partners around the world, while sharing art, knowledge, and resources with the public online, and in-person at the Getty Center and Getty Villa.

"Made by Grandma" by Kimberly Espinosa Print from Las Fotos Project ($75)

Las Fotos Project, a 2020 and 2021 Grants Challenge winner, empowers teenage girls and gender-expansive youth from communities of color through photography and mentorship, fostering creative expression and career development. With a focus on social justice, the program enables participants to advocate for change and explore pathways to creative futures.

Lost Angels Keychain from Lost Angel's Children's Project ($5)

Lost Angels Children’s Project, a 2020 and 2022 winner of the Grants Challenge, serves disadvantaged youth, young adults, families, and distressed communities through vocational training, social enterprise, and outreach programs. Their mission focuses on empowering individuals and revitalizing communities with innovative approaches.

Faves (Pack of 12) from Climate Candy ($30)

FAVES, the first Climate Candy has set out to solve the climate crisis by preventing food waste, upcycling perfectly good fruits and vegetables, and creating candy that's good for people and the planet.

Hollywood Bowl Iconic Seat Cushion from LA Phil Store ($20)

The LA Phil Store is the exclusive source of goods as uplifting as the music of the LA Phil, as playful as a summer night spent at the Hollywood Bowl, and as ingeniously designed as the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Sea Salt White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies from Prosperity Market ($11)

Prosperity Market, a 2023 Grants Challenge winner, is a mobile, solar-powered farmers market showcasing Black farmers, food producers, and chefs, bringing a curated market experience to communities across LA, while also promoting food access and supporting Black-owned businesses.

"Si Se Puede" Notepad from Hija de tu Madre ($21)

Hija de tu Madre is a lifestyle brand for Latinas, based in LA.

Shark 3D Wooden Puzzle from Heal The Bay ($10)

Heal the Bay, a 2015 Grants Challenge winner, is an environmental nonprofit focused on keeping Greater Los Angeles' coastal waters and watersheds safe, healthy, and clean through science, advocacy, community action, and education.

Calm Vibes Friendship Bracelet Kit from Craft Contemporary ($25)

Located on LA's historic Miracle Mile since 1965, Craft Contemporary reveals the potential of craft to educate, captivate, provoke, and empower.

Southern California Native Plants Poster from TreePeople ($28)

TreePeople is the largest environmental movement headquartered in Southern California, centered around taking action for our environment by planting and caring for trees.

Food Huggers from re_ ($17)

re_ is a sustainable market that promotes zero waste and plastic packaging consumption.

Coffee Cake from Homeboy Industries ($29)

Homeboy Industries, a winner of the 2013 and 2022 Grants Challenge, provides hope, training, and support to formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated people.

National Parks Tour 1000pc Puzzle from Parks Project ($32)

Founded in Santa Monica, Parks Project preserves parklands for generations and helps fund projects in national parks around the United States.

Hoya Crimson Queen from The Plant Chica ($30)

Sandra Mejia may be known as The Plant Chica, but her shop is much more than just her – it’s a family-run business that has grown with the help of her loved ones, a dedicated team, and the incredible community they serve.

Pink Palm Tree Hoodie from dublab x Everybody.World ($80)

Founded in 1999, dublab has been streaming far-out music since the dial-up age. dublab: Future Roots Radio bends time and space through sound.

Tasting Box (Pack of 4) from Holey Grail Donuts ($16)

Holey Grail is a made-to-order, taro donut experience, as well as a movement of sustainable indulgence by incorporating local agriculture and using real ingredients.

"Read the paper." Hat from LA Times ($35)

The L.A. Times is a leading source of breaking news, entertainment, sports, politics, and more for Southern California and the world.

Planters + Clipping Swap Workshop from POT Studio LA ($55)

POT is the first community pottery studio for and by people of color. It offers fun classes, private parties, memberships, and more.

Los Angeles Trinket Tray from Library Foundation of Los Angeles ($15)

The Library Store, located inside the historic Los Angeles Central Library, offers a curated selection of unique merchandise. The non-profit gift shop supports free programs, resources, and services provided by the Los Angeles Public Library.

Candle from Made by DWC x Piece by Piece ($77)

MADE by DWC, a winner of the 2014 Grants Challenge, is the social enterprise arm of the Downtown Women’s Center, the first and only organization in LA focused on serving and empowering women experiencing homelessness.

The Big Impact Cutting Board from Would Works ($92)

Would Works is an LA-based social enterprise that trains and employs people experiencing homelessness in the craft of woodworking.

"HoLA" Sweatshirt from House of Woo ($120)

The House of Woo began in Los Angeles in 1997, with the dream of producing locally and the intention to create something you’ll love forever.

Gift Card to Everytable (Price Varies)

Everytable's mission is to transform the food system to make fresh, nutritious food accessible to everyone, everywhere.

California Explorer Day Use Annual Pass from California Department of Parks and Recreation ($195)

The California Department of Parks and Recreation preserves California's extraordinary biological diversity, protects its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creates opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.

Pan Dulce from El Aguila Bakery ($1+)

El Aguila Bakery, a family-owned Mexican panaderia founded by the Casillas/Flores family in 1973, offers a variety of handmade sweet breads, tarts, cookies, and savory tamales crafted from traditional recipes, providing an authentic taste of Mexican baking.

Laguiole Bread Knife from Gusto Bread ($40)

Gusto Bread is an artisanal panadería in Long Beach that specializes in baking with masa madre and in-house Nixtamal.

Linen Napkin Set from Suay Sew Shop ($56)

Suay Sew Shop upcycles and reclaims fabrics to prevent typically-disposed garments from ending up in landfills.

Cruise T-Shirt from L.A. Taco ($35)

Founded in 2006, L.A. TACO is an independent news platform covering food, culture, and community in the LA metropolitan area.

"You Are On Native Land" Pin from Tía Chucha's Cultural and Bookstore ($13)

Tia Chucha’s Centro Cultural & Bookstore, a 2024 Grants Challenge winner, offers culturally relevant books and literacy programs focused on Xicanx, Latinx, and social justice themes. Through diverse programs and a specialized collection, the bookstore aims to foster literacy and cultural connection within the local BIPOC community.

WIP Tote Bag Black from dublab x Carhartt ($58)

Founded in 1999, dublab has been streaming far-out music since the dial-up age. dublab: Future Roots Radio bends time and space through sound.

Non-Alcoholic Cali Spritz (Pack of 4) from OPTIMIST Botanicals ($22)

OPTIMIST Botanicals are award-winning, artfully distilled botanical spirits that are completely free of alcohol.

2024 Pride Embroidered Black Crewneck Sweater from Angel City Football Club ($56)

Angel City Football Club is a member of the National Women’s Soccer League and a mission-driven organization with impact built into its business structure.

"Dream Big Mija" Stained Glass Mug from Viva La Bonita ($20)

Viva La Bonita is a women's lifestyle and apparel brand inspired by the Mujeres who Dream Big.

Natural Dye Kit with Flowers and Silk Scarf from Circular Fashion LA ($38)

Circular Fashion LA is a California Social Purpose Corporation aiming to tackle the dual problems of post-consumer clothing and textile waste.

Alta Three Pack from Alta Pantry ($30)

Founded by chefs Keith Corbin and Daniel Patterson of Alta Adams restaurant, Alta Pantry is a celebration of diverse tastes and vibrant ingredients.

Abundance Herbal Soap from LOT XI ($16)

Founded in Compton, LOT XI is a community-focused urban apothecary that handcrafts products using environmentally safe, organic, and fair-trade ingredients sourced from local farmers.

All About Love by bell hooks from Reparations Club Bookshop ($17)

Rep.club is a Black-owned, woman-owned concept bookshop and creative space in Los Angeles.

Group Classes or Individual Lessons from City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation & Parks (Price Varies)

The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks stewards 16,000 acres of parkland and offers extensive recreational, social, and cultural programs at more than 550 park sites.

Art in a Box: Heart Magnet Mosaic Kit from Piece by Piece ($35)

Piece by Piece offers residents of Skid Row and South Los Angeles free mosaic art workshops supporting wellness and quality of life with a path to earned income.

What’s Behind the Blue Door? Creative Writing Prompts to Invite Inspiration from WriteGirl ($17)

WriteGirl is a Los Angeles-based creative writing and mentoring organization that spotlights the power of a girl and her pen. Through one-on-one mentoring and monthly creative writing workshops, girls are given techniques, insights and hot topics for great writing.

"They Not Like Us" Heavy Tee from For The Culture Club ($50)

For The Culture Club is an LA-based company founded in 2018 operating at the intersection of design, culture, and community and merging the flavor and authenticity of Black culture with thoughtfully designed artifacts and experiences to elevate, inspire, and build community.

Oaxacan Chocolate from Guelaguetza ($15)

Guelaguetza first opened its doors in 1994 by immigrant husband and wife Fernando Lopez and Maria Monterrubio. Since then, the restaurant’s goal has been to showcase the best of our family recipes and stay true to authentic Oaxacan ingredients.

Bestie Balm from Trixie Cosmetics ($8)

Founded by drag queen Trixie Mattel, Trixie Cosmetics offers accessible, standout cosmetics for users of all experience levels with a range of inclusive shades and cruelty-free products.

Wide Brim Denim Bucket Hats from Big Bud Press ($58)

Big Bud Press is a fast-growing Los Angeles based clothing label specializing in unisex, everyday goods. It prides itself on its ethical and local manufacturing practices.

Reservation for One from Tea at Shiloh ($44)

Shiloh is a peaceful space to connect with yourself and others through tea and conversation, hoping to reimagine nightlife by creating calm, open and inspiring atmospheres for community, connection, and creation.

Boba Keychain from Parchment Paper ($18)

Parchment Paper is a specialty gift shop dedicated to food lovers and all things food. The store strives to support small independent artisans and their craft.

Membership from LA Zoo ($60)

The Los Angeles Zoo saves wildlife and connects Angelenos to the natural world by providing animal care, learning opportunities, and unforgettable experiences.

Marigold Woven Throw Blanket from Miracle Eye ($140)

Miracle Eye is a Latina-owned, family-run small business in LA that creates handmade-to-order, sweatshop-free clothing using high-quality, sustainable materials, including vintage deadstock fabrics. Committed to ethical craftsmanship, Miracle Eye focuses on sustainability and minimizing waste.

Two-Tone Checker Coaster from Mind to Light ($26)

Mind to Light is a local handmade glass practice with a desire to create functional glass art.

Lil’ Lotería: My First STEAM Words Game from Lil' Libros ($22)

Lil' Libros began in LA when two friends and mothers came together with a vision to create captivating books that they did not have access to growing up.

Serizawa Calendar 2025 from Tortoise General Store ($19)

Tortoise General Store is a husband-and-wife run shop dedicated to Japanese-produced home goods, stationery, clothing, and skincare.

Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE: Stories From the Best of Humanity by Gabriel Reilich, Lucia Knell from Skylight Books ($28)

Skylight Books is a general bookstore serving the historic Los Angeles neighborhoods of Hollywood, Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Downtown.

Black & Brown Unity T-Shirt from South LA Cafe ($25)

South LA Cafe is a Black-owned, family-owned business that serves coffee with a cause.

Donut (W)hole Exhibition Catalogue from Self Help Graphics & Art ($20)

Self Help Graphics & Art fosters the creation and advancement of new art works by Chicana/o and Latinx artists through experimental and innovative printmaking techniques and other visual art forms.

Art Deco Walking Tour from Los Angeles Conservancy ($25)

The Los Angeles Conservancy is a member-based nonprofit that works to preserve historic buildings and educate the community about Los Angeles County's array of historic resources.

Rich & Pour Vanilla Hochija Tea from Leanna Lin's Wonderland ($22)

Leanna Lin's Wonderland is a playful gift shop and art gallery featuring independent artists and designers – for the young at heart.

Gift Card to Holbox (Price varies)

As one of just eight restaurants inside Historic South Central LA’s Mercado La Paloma, Holbox is a Mexican seafood restaurant that focuses on fresh local ingredients, vibrant flavors, and unpretentious presentation.

Rotunda Collection "Dome" Stained Glass Suncatcher by Janel Foo from Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County ($140)

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, a 2019 winner of the Grants Challenge, protects and shares more than 35 million specimens and artifacts – the largest natural and cultural history collection in the western United States.

Large Tote Bags from Crop Swap LA ($20)

A 2020 Grants Challenge winner, Crop Swap LA has grown from a small monthly neighborhood swap of fruits and vegetables, to a globally recognized institution and movement. Crop Swap LA believes that food should be grown and consumed locally.

Tom Pigeon: Mix Match Cufflinks from MOCA Store ($27)

Established in 1979, MOCA is the only artist-founded museum in Los Angeles. It is dedicated to collecting and exhibiting contemporary art.

LA Plaza Ornament from LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes ($28)

LA Tienda, located within the institute of LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, a 2019 Grants Challenge winner, is a museum gift store celebrating Mexican-American culture and art.

Vintage Point & Shoot Camera from relics ($40 and up)

Located in Long Beach, relics is California's first Black-owned film camera store and lifestyle brand. Its mission is to bring diversity and accessibility to the world of film photography.

Double Wall Curvey Glasses (Set of 2) from Poketo ($25)

Founded in 2003, Poketo has carefully curated and created a collection of design-conscious goods meant to cultivate a creative lifestyle.

Vienna Toiletry Bag from Rareform ($60)

Rareform collects billboard vinyls to be repurposed into original products that inspire daily adventures.

Gift Card to Rosebud Coffee (Price Varies)

Rosebud Coffee, originally a mobile cart supporting formerly homeless and transitional-aged youth, has grown into a permanent café in Pasadena and the nonprofit Coffee with a Cause. Committed to quality coffee and community impact, Rosebud Coffee continues its mission of providing job training and fostering connection.

Rooted Oil Roller from NOTO ($28)

NOTO is a multi-use, gender-inclusive, clean cosmetic line celebrating the authentic and diverse layers of what self-expression and beauty can mean.

Self Care Box from Prosperity Market ($65)

Prosperity Market, a 2023 Grants Challenge winner, is a mobile, solar-powered farmers market showcasing Black farmers, food producers, and chefs, bringing a curated market experience to communities across LA, while also promoting food access and supporting Black-owned businesses.

Howard Smith Tea Towel from LACMA ($40)

LACMA's mission is to serve the public through the collection, conservation, exhibition, and interpretation of significant works of art.

Tribe Sunglasses from Opolis Optics ($175)

Through technological innovation, Opolis uses plant based and rPET plastic that is, or would end up in, the ocean as upcycled material for durable goods like sunglasses.

AuthorTeam LA2050
CollectionLA Gift Guides