Many of us have mothers who can afford to buy whatever they want. Or perhaps they’re getting to the point in life where they’re downsizing or getting rid of things.  

So instead of buying a gift this Mother’s Day that she may not need or want, why not honor your mom by contributing to a cause that’s important to her? Visit the links below and donate in her honor.

Is she an animal lover?  How about:

• St. Louis Zoo — Adopt a Puma promotion for Mother’s Day.   

• ASPCA (American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) — 

If her interest is empowering girls, how about:

• Girls in the Know — Teaches girls about self-esteem, safety and puberty with classes by police, doctors and more.  www.girlsintheknow.org

• Girls on the Run — Teaches running and critical life skills to girls. www.girlsontherunstlouis.org

If she’s inspired to help families:

• Jewish Family Services — Helps seniors, children and families at risk, provides food and services for the needy, helps mediate family problems and enhances Jewish connections.

• National Council for Jewish Women-St. Louis — Provides micro-lending program for women and families in need, helps outfit children in need as they get ready for school, provides a community closet of clothes and supplies for children, helps grieving widows and widowers and much more.  

If someone close is suffering from a disease or died?

• Cancer Support Community — Offers counseling, support groups, cooking and exercise classes and other resources for individuals and their families fighting cancer.