About Working Gifts

We believe that local challenges require local solutions.

We also believe that the whole world can play a part in making these local solutions realities.

That’s why we created Working Gifts.

Working Gifts are not “hand outs.” They are not big or complicated proposals, either. Working Gifts are concrete goods and services that contribute to an integrated human development project being implemented right now by a national ICA. Working Gifts directly support the initiatives of local people who have demonstrated the courage, creativity, and commitment to overcome the challenges they face. Your Working Gift provides tangible, added support.

Working Gifts also give you the opportunity to make a gift that represents your values. With a wide selection of gifts to choose from, you can decide on a gift that has a special meaning for your recipient, or a community that your recipient cares about.

For recipients, Working Gifts can be powerful learning tools and inspiring examples of the potential of ordinary people to transform the future. Perfect for everyone on your list, Working Gifts are alternative gifts that teach, inspire, and keep on giving – on both ends.

For each gift you make, a photo card (electronic or hard copy) will be sent to the person you designate as the recipient, so that s/he knows that this empowering gift has been made in his/her name. This way, your recipient will be able to see their gift at work in the field. 

Special arrangements are also available for businesses, schools, faith communities, and other groups interested in sponsoring a large project. Click here to learn more.

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Working Gifts.

Q. How are Working Gifts identified?

A. Working Gifts are designed by national ICA field staff, in consultation with the communities they serve. Working Gifts respond to concrete needs identified by community members and ICA staff members, and reflect ICA’s approach of comprehensive, participatory, sustainable human development.

Q. What does “Quantity available (needed) ” mean?

A. Working Gifts support real projects being carried out now. In some cases, an unlimited quantity of a gift can be incorporated into a project. In other cases, only a limited number are needed at this time. Quantities available are updated as gifts are purchased.

Q. How do Working Gifts reach people in the field?

A. Each gift is a special arrangement between ICA International and the national ICA. A small administrative fee, included in the price you pay, covers the cost of transfer fees and credit card processing. Funds are transferred as quickly as possible, so that your dollars go to work right away!

Q. What does my Working Gift recipient receive?

A. Included with each gift is a photo card – electronic or hard copy (your choice) – describing the gift and the contribution it will make in the lives of others. This card can be sent either directly to your recipient or to you, if you wish to deliver the gift in person.

Q. I want to buy a number of gifts, but am not sure who I want to given them to. What do I do?

A. No problem. We will send blank cards for each gift to you, and you can fill them out and distribute them to your recipients. If you want any follow-up information to go to the recipient(s) – rather than to you – please indicate this in an email to workinggifts@ica-international.org.

Q. How can my business, school, faith community, or other group make a Working Gift?

A. Working Gifts are perfect for raising global awareness, fostering team spirit, and building community in you business, school, or faith community. Click here to learn more.

Q. Why do costs for the same item vary from country to country?

A. Every local situation is different, and items are purchased in country. A lower price does not necessarily mean greater efficiency or value – this represents the actual cost of getting your gift to the person or people who need it, in the country where they live.

Have another question? Email workinggifts@ica-international.org.