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...