December 4, 2007

Party with a Purpose

Once upon a time, children's birthday parties were simple affairs with a few friends and a cake. But lately they've morphed into extravagant events featuring mile-long guest lists, professional performers and a mountain of gifts.

That's why the recently launched ECHOage makes so much sense. The brainchild of two Toronto-based moms looking to inject more meaning into their kids' birthday celebrations, the party planning/charitable giving site helps parents organize environmentally and socially responsible fêtes.

First, parents send groovy online invites to guests who RSVP with a donation of $20 (the average cost of a typical bday present, plus wrapping and card). Of the pooled funds, half go to buy the guest of honor a single meaningful present and the other half goes to one of three specially selected kid- or planet-friendly causes.

The site helps Mom and Dad keep track of invitees, parent contacts and even guests' food allergies, which saves time and money, not to mention the earth (with no paper invitations, gifts to wrap or cards to write, trees are spared).

The giving portion of the program lets budding philanthropists make a significant contribution to their community and the world – which may just be the greatest birthday gift of all.

For more information, visit ECHOage.com.

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