In the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle, I knew I wanted to catch some of the holiday coffees and Starbucks was on my mind. I looked hard at the menu and decided that the Peppermint Mocha Twist was right up my alley. Whipped cream, peppermint, coffee and chocolate—what’s not to like? To my surprise, my holiday treat was also a part of the new Starbucks (Red) Program.

What is (Red) all about?

As the (RED) website explains, “(RED) is not a charity. It's a business model designed to create awareness and a sustainable flow of money from the private sector into the Global Fund, to help eliminate AIDS in Africa. Consumers buy (PRODUCT) RED, and at no cost to them, money is sent directly to the Global Fund.”

According to Starbucks they will be participating in the(RED) program from Thursday, November 27 through January 2, 2009. For every (STARBUCKS)RED EXCLUSIVE beverage purchased, Starbucks will contribute five cents to the Global Fund to invest in AIDS programs in Africa. This product launch marks the beginning of a multi-year partnership with (RED)™ that is part of the Starbucks™ Shared Planet™ commitment to communities.”

It’s a no-brainer way to help others in my book.

What did I do for me?

I gave myself the gift of indulgence with a delicious peppermint, dark chocolate coffee topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Many times during the holidays we tend to run ourselves into the ground. We lose sight of what we need and begin to resent all of the things we must do.

My husband and I were running around doing some last minute holiday errands. Because my husband is not a coffee drinker, my plan was to run in, get my coffee and go. To my surprise, while I was getting my coffee, he secured a table and two comfy wing chairs and told me to sit with him, relax and enjoy my coffee.

One meaningful moment for us that contributed to the good of others. What better holiday gift can you ask for?

Happy Holidays!