Give Concord for Christmas

Running out of gift ideas for the hard-to-buy-for? Looking for something a little more unique?

One option is to step away from the online shopping cart and the big-name stores — and come on home to Concord instead.

Shopping at the mom-and-pop shops in the city helps keep these businesses alive, and there are plenty of ways to support local organizations this holiday season with your gift-buying choices.

Here are a few suggestions of how to give Concord for Christmas:

• For long-time Concordians and history buffs, buy them a membership to the Concord Historical Society. It's $25 a year or $500 for life. Download a membership application form from the Concord Historical Society website.

• Donate in someone else's name to a local non-profit organization, such as (click the links to make a donation):
  
  • The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano
  • The Monument Crisis Center
  • STAND! For Families Free of Violence
  • The Rainbow Community Center of Contra Costa County
  • Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa
  • The Contra Costa Crisis Center

• Give the gift of classes and activities offered through Concord Parks & Recreation Services. Click here to browse events, sign up for an account and buy online.

• Some locally owned businesses have gift cards available for purchase. Check with management at your mom-and-pop shop or restaurant of choice to see what's available.

• Buy a certification course at the Concord Community Pool, including CPR and lifeguarding skills.

• Encourage the kids and teenagers in your life to get active by joining a local sports group or camp.

Do you have ideas about how to "give Concord for Christmas" this year? Comment below and your suggestions will be added to the list.