Shop Local, Make a Difference

Whether shopping for the holidays or looking for gift ideas year-round, make a difference with each purchase! Give a gift that gives back by supporting these local social enterprises founded by some of United Way of Metro Chicago’s nonprofit partners.

Bright Endeavors: Soy Candles Artfully Poured by Young Moms

Brighten up the holidays with a seasonal candle crafted by young moms gaining critical, paid work experience. Founded by nonprofit New Moms, Bright Endeavors’ soy candles and reed diffusers spark comfort and warmth. Their “Bright Lights” collection features especially festive scents like amber & tonka bean, cardamon & clove, juniper berry & fir and pomegranate & champagne. They even offer create-your-own gift boxes and local pick up outside their candle-making facility in West Garfield Park.
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beelove: Raw Honey and Honey-Infused Skincare

Treat yourself to something sweet! beelove raw honey and skincare products by Sweet Beginnings, a social enterprise of the North Lawndale Employment Network, are luxurious and packed with antioxidants. They’re also produced and sold by individuals returning from incarceration, supporting vital transitional job opportunities and breaking down barriers to employment. All honey is locally produced at their Chicagoland apiaries and infused in their soothing bath and body products, including lip balm, shower gel, sugar scrub and lotion. Get a taste of beelove honey in action at their North Lawndale café at 1111 S. Homan Ave. Try a “pollinating pastry,” like the maple praline biscuit, and warm up with a seasonal beverage, like a peppermint mocha—all made with beelove honey.
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Four Star Creations: Mixed Media by Young Artists

Colorful, Chicago-inspired posters and prints populate the Four Star Creations Etsy store, a youth-run social enterprise of Visionaries, an art initiative of the nonprofit Erie Neighborhood House. High school students exercise their photography, video production, graphic design and computer technology skills, showcasing their creativity and perspective through vibrant art. Get the “Dibs” series for the long-time Chicagoan in your life.
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Bonus shopping tip: Reduce your carbon footprint and further social impact with these affordable resale stores founded by our nonprofit partners. You never know what vintage gems you may find—and will make the perfect gift.