At so many of the gift exchanges at a group or at work, I've ended up with something that was so NOT something I would have bought or made for myself.
Maybe a cookie or bar exchange instead?
Items for a food shelf?
I realize I do not know the people or dynamics in the group you are talking about.
Sometimes receiving (or giving) "a little something" - like a mug rug - for a non-traditional holiday or "just because" such as the 4th of July is a lot more fun - and memorable - than piling in "one more thing" for the December holidays.