Laos forum

Visit Big Brother Mouse, found in bigger towns (Luang Prabang, Luang Nam Tha, etc.) and spend a few bucks on some books. Created by Lao youths, they are intended to raise literacy - and they make perfect gifts if you visit any villages. Give them to a schoolmaster and know you have done something good. If you can afford to travel at all, you can afford this.

Also keep your eye open for Red Cross posters. If a Lao needs blood, it is very expensive through normal venues; your donation through the Red Cross could really make a difference for somebody. And fear not, the Red Cross uses sterile, sealed syringes.