Heifer Happening Grand Rapids

2008 Poster!

2008-09-06T12:07:00.003-04:00

David Boothby will present Poland Study Tour

2008-08-03T20:41:00.005-04:00

David Boothby, former Midwest Regional Director, will present two 30 minute Heifer International Poland Study Tour slide programs. Dave led many Heifer study tours before retiring in Sept. 2007 after working with Heifer for over 30 years. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about Heifer's work in Poland.

Chef Michael Kalinowski Feeds the Hungry

2008-08-01T10:52:00.004-04:00

First time donor, Michael Kalinowski, has taken on the Kosovo Project. As a chef, he's a person who understands hunger and the pleasure of satisfying it.
The northern Kosovar village of Shtutice suffered terribly during the war in the former Yugoslavia. Some 49 houses, the school and ambulances were destroyed. Livestock was slaughtered, and tractors, combines and other agricultural equipment were stolen or burned. Seventy-six men died and 25 disappeared. Ninety children lost one of their parents; five children lost both parents, and 26 women were widowed. Surviving women still bear the physical and mental scars of beatings and torture by Serbian soldiers. In collaboration with the Women for Women organization, this project will help strengthen the community as families increase income and improve their nutrition and economic conditions. Increased income will help children receive a better education and improve family health. Heifer will provide families with sheep for wool production, milk and meat. Families will create wool handicrafts for sale to Women for Women. Milk and meat can be consumed by the families, and surplus milk can be sold at market.
Thank you Michael and Rebecca for fighting hunger.

Fill the Ark Challenge Trophy!

2008-08-01T10:45:00.002-04:00

This trophy will be given to the winner of the "Fill the Ark Challenge", the church or organization that contributes the most to help "Fill our Heifer ARK".

Fill the Ark Challenge!

2008-06-29T11:44:00.004-04:00

Magic Steel Sales Conjures Up Support for Thailand and Alpacas

2008-04-09T12:00:00.003-04:00

We are proud to announce the Magic Steel Sales LLC of Grand Rapids will be sponsoring both the Thailand Project booth and the Alpaca/Llama booth. This is Magic Steels first year working with Heifer Happening and we are glad to add them to our team.

Art and Science Work in Harmony to Sponsor Heifer Happening

2008-04-09T11:42:00.003-04:00

Anthony Foster and Linda Nemec-Foster teamed up in 1974 when they married. Anthony is a surgeon and Linda is a poet. Together they are taking on the challenge of sponsoring project tables for Heifer Happening '08. Dr. Foster will be sponsoring our Chicago project--an exciting look at how Heifer's animal solutions can be adapted to the urban environment. Linda will be sponsoring our Haiti project--a spotlight project this year.
Heifer is an organization with broad appeal to people of all kinds of gifts. We're glad this artist and scientist have partnered with us for another successful event.

LaFontsee Galleries Sponsors the New Camel Booth

2008-03-02T11:16:00.007-05:00

Returning sponsors, LaFontsee Galleries, have decided to sponsor our new Camel Booth. We are excited by the opportunity this booth provides us to educate West Michigan about the importance of these fascinating animals and all they do to help communities adjust to climate change and alleviate poverty and hunger. Thank you, LaFontsee Galleries, for your global vision and continuing support.

Preparing for Heifer Happening '08

2008-03-01T10:20:00.002-05:00

The planning committee is already hard at work on next year's Heifer Happening Living Gift Market. We are actively seeking business sponsors for our project and animal booths. New attractions are being added to the LGM next year, including a farmer's market and new displays. We'll be demonstrating a Bio-Gas Digester and a Chicken Tiller. You won't want to miss this great opportunity to learn about how Heifer's work is ending hunger one great idea at a time. Next year's event will be held at Wesley Park UMC on October 11 from 10-3. We'll see you there!

A Good Time Was Had By All

2007-10-30T10:58:00.000-04:00

Who says face paint is for kids? Thank you Nancy for your invaluable leadership year after year. We'd have never done it without you.
Snowball delighted children and grownups alike.There were many astonishing things to learn as children filled out their Market Passports by visiting each booth.
Our Guatemala Project could afford to take it easy with all those Change for Kids Challenge Goats on the way.
Thanking David Boothby for his many years of service with Heifer International. We'll miss you, Dave.Shoppers enjoying the beautiful fair-trade goods Esperanza en Accion brought us from Nicaragua.
We all learned a lot about poultry. Who knew domesticated birds were so diverse--and beautiful.A bin of worms, perfect for a little early Halloween.
The chick, sheep and tree beg to be bought. Who can resist such a sweet sale's pitch!
Eating and Talking in the Heifer Cafe.
A market visitor who had known Dan West assured us that Steve Ellens was very authentic in his presentation of "Meet Dan West" in our Heifer Theater.

Bob Zabonick took the above photographs and we thank him for using his talents on our behalf.

We Broke the Ark Barrier!

2007-10-30T10:30:00.000-04:00

Third time's the charm! Heifer Happening earned a grand total of $6,681.49, $1,681.49 more than an Ark. We are so thankful for all the market visitor's who purchased animals. Together they raised $4,567.00. Our Change for Kids Challenge was a great boost raising a total of $1,180.14. We were particularly surprised by Faith United Methodist, which contributed the highest amount at $802.30 and won our "You Really Got Our Goat!" trophy. Other funds were collected through smaller ventures such as the Heifer Cafe and the Take Your Photo with an Animal Booth.
We would also like to thank our business sponsors for their gracious donations totaling 900 dollars. They gave us a head start on exceeding our goal, and we are exceedingly grateful. Be sure and say thanks to Russ' Restaurants, Dan Vos Construction, Quality Industrial Services, H&W Farms, BHT&D Financial Group, Dr. Linda Satterlee, Grand River Physical Therapy, LaFontsee Gallery, Brann's Steakhouse, and Affordable Feasts. Their support gave us hope and confidence.
We also have to thank the many Heifer volunteers who spent hours preparing booths, recruiting partners, coordinating materials and bringing in animals. Heifer Happening wouldn't happen without our dedicated volunteers.

A Child's Day at the Market

2007-10-25T10:16:00.000-04:00

Arrive at Wesley Park UMC and say hello to the Alpaca on the church lawn.
Receive the Market Passport filled with games and activities and opportunities to win prizes.
Dash over to the Change for Kids Challenge booth to have the change in the Ark bank counted and be entered into the "You Really Go t Our Goat!" Competition.
Meet the animals and learn about how they help families provide food, clothing, shelter and education to children around the world.
Take a tour of the world by visiting the Project booths.
Listen to the Storyteller and learn some songs at the Heifer Theater. Hang around to see the video about Beatrice Biira, from the book Beatrice's Goat, now that she is all grown up.
Take a break and get some food downstairs. All this talk about World Hunger can sure get your tummy rumbling!
Drop by the craft table for face painting and fun craft projects with Lori.
Look at the cool fair-trade purchases mom made.
Pick up your prizes at the Redemption Barn.
Say goodbye to the alpaca on your way back to the car, full of happy memories and dreams for a world without hunger.

Heifer Theater

2007-10-17T11:25:00.000-04:00

This year all of our entertainment activities will take place in a separate area we've dubbed, The Heifer Theater. For all of our Change for Kids Challenge families we'll be presenting "Beatrice's Goat" the 60 Minutes program about Beatrice Biira and the goat that changed her life, allowing her to attend school and eventually college here in the US. One goat can make an amazing difference in a struggling family's life. Hopefully we'll have raised enough change to make a difference for a family in Guatemala.

Steve Ellens of Master Arts Theater will be presenting "Meet Dan West" a monologue about Heifer Internationals' visionary founder which will help our guests connect with Heifer's can-do, agrarian roots. Steve has been performing since 1976, and has performed other monologues about visionary leaders. He's also played Gandalf from The Hobbit and Zophar from The Book of Job.

Libby Kinsey has agreed to be our Storyteller and to teach the children songs. She is a seventh grade teacher with four grandchildren and a lot of experience pleasing an audience of young people. This can be a great break for parents of young children.

Pam Clevenger is also a long time performer who will favoring us with folk music from around the world on her violin. Thrilled to participate for the first time this year, she feel that Heifer's requirement of Passing on the Gift is the best thing about Heifer, turning receivers into givers.

We will also be showing a more general video about Heifer's work titled Passing on the Gift. Below is a time table for all the Heifer Theater activities.

9:30 – “Beatrice’s Goat”

10:00 – “Meet Dan West”

10:30 – Storyteller

11:00 – “Passing on the Gift” DVD

11:30 – “Meet Dan West”

12:00 – Storyteller

12:30 – “Beatrice’s Goat”

1:00 – “Meet Dan West”

1:30 – Storyteller

2:00 – “Passing on the Gift”

Rabbits and Goats and Alpacas, Oh my!

2007-10-06T14:47:00.000-04:00

One of the best things about the Living Gift Market is the live animals. Many of us live lives separated from anything more exciting than a pet cat or dog by a long drive out to the country. The market brings the animals to you, and helps us all to remember the intimate connection between human beings and other mammals.
Cartoons have been the only education some of us have had on the habits of farm animals, and not surprisingly a lot of those assumptions are wrong. Our many 4H and other volunteers have been quick to correct misconceptions about such animals as goats. "They don’t really eat everything the way people think they do," Jean Kuhlman was quick to say when I interviewed her about bringing goats to the market. She pointed out that goats are very versatile and fun to raise. In many countries children care for goats because they are so loving and gentle.
Lucky for us the seemingly exotic alpaca is being raised by the Binkowski family who started working with sheep, but after learning how to shear alpacas became increasingly involved in both shearing and raising alpacas. When I asked Nancy why she thought the alpacas are such a hit each year at the market, she said, "I think the one thing that makes them a hit at the LGM's is that they are friendly and people can touch them and feel how soft they are, people love to have their pictures taken with them, which we love to have them do. Sometimes you might even get one of them to kiss you. " Alpaca fleece is very soft, warm and lightweight. Not only are alpacas great for the people of Peru, American alpaca farmers are working to educate Americans about the many benefits of Alpaca fleece.
Rabbits are another favorite, and who can resist their long ears, soft fur and wriggly noses, but a gift of rabbits to a family with little land and few resources should never be underestimated. Families with Heifer rabbits are raising them on the back porch — or even in the kitchen. So long as they are warm and dry, rabbits thrive, and they love to eat leftover vegetables. In turn, families get nitrogen-rich manure to use on gardens or to sell as fertilizer. And since rabbits have up to 40 offspring a year, they provide families with steady sources of protein and income.

Good Eats

2007-10-04T10:54:00.000-04:00

As we have for the last three years, we will be offering breakfast and lunch at the market. Sue Alexander, a professional cook, will be slinging the hash. The menu hasn't been finalized yet, but it will most likely include--coffee and donuts for breakfast, sandwiches, chips and snack items for lunch. One of the more unusual items on the menu will be the "Walking Taco." Pictured on the right it features corn chips, taco meat and cheese and at our event it will be served in a cup and eaten with a spoon. Walking Tacos are a neater, handier version of the original. While we all work together to help make sure that others don't go hungry, Sue will be making sure our stomachs aren't rumbling either. All proceeds will go toward the purchase of animals.

Managing the Animals

2007-10-03T11:14:00.001-04:00

Keep an eye out for Joanna Willoughby, our animal manager. She'll be responsible for setting up the pens and discretely dealing with the "effluvia" that is the by-product of live animals. A key member of the planning committee, Joanna has been a great help in getting the event organized and recruiting sponsors.

Joanna has heard about Heifer through her church and she was thrilled to discover that a living gift market was taking place so close to her house. When she attended last year she told Nancy she wanted to help. We've been so glad she did.

Our Thanks to Horrocks

2007-10-03T11:02:00.001-04:00

Horrocks has come to our rescue by donating all the hay for the animal pens. Horrocks is one of Grand Rapids most unique stores offering specialty grocery, fresh produce, deli, meats, floral, garden center, nursery and home decor items.
Be sure to express your thanks the next time you're shopping Horrocks.

Exploring Heifer

2007-09-06T16:13:00.001-04:00

Heifer has added a new feature to its extensive website. It's a tool to help people understand how Heifer does what Heifer does. The interface is easy to use and intriguing. The design is reminiscent of JK Rowling's excellent website, and should encourage folks to go deeper in their understanding of Heifer.
Check it out for yourself at http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.201470/

Getting the Word Out!

2007-08-31T10:50:00.000-04:00

Getting people out to the market is a big push at this year's market. We've added all kinds of new tools to our publicity arsenal. We have two blogs, this one and the Change for Kids Challenge blog. We've put together an extensive press kit that we are sending out to all the media outlets in Grand Rapids, and we're actively recruiting churches for the Change for Kids Challenge via a telemarketing campaign.
Currently, we've sent out 11 press kits with another wave set to go in early October and we've contacted 336 churches via the phone. 164 churches have requested further information either by snail mail or email.
You can help by taking the message to your local organization and recruiting them to come to the market and/or participate in the Change for Kids Challenge. For fliers and brochures contact us through our email address, heiferhappening@gmail.com.

David Boothby: Our Honored Guest

2007-08-28T12:24:00.001-04:00

David Boothby has been our regional volunteer coordinator. He is retiring soon, but he plans to continue working for Heifer as a volunteer. In that capacity he is coming to the market to help us introduce people to Heifer's mission. We will be honoring Mr. Boothby's 33 years of service throughout the day at the Living Gift Market.
David got interested in Heifer when he brought a youth group to the Heifer Ranch in 1974. From there his interest grew and eventually he signed on. Working for Heifer has sent him to 11 different countries of which, China was his favorite. He was the first American ever to visit the village where the Heifer project was located.
Make sure you look David up at the market. He has lots of stories to tell, and he knows the ins and outs of Heifer better than anyone.

How Does Heifer End Hunger?

2007-08-23T11:36:00.000-04:00

Heifer's Steps to Sustainable Development

1. Community groups approach Heifer International for help in setting up an animal or agriculture project.

2. Country program staff meet with applicants to make sure the group's goals are compatible with Heifer's mission and that they have the capacity to carry out the project successfully. Heifer staff and project participants go through a careful planning process to decide which animals or crops would be most beneficial.

3. The project plans are submitted to the Heifer International headquarters for approval.

4. Before receiving their animals, project participants must first undergo rigorous training to learn about Heifer's Cornerstones such as gender equity and sharing and caring, which will guide them toward just and sustainable development. For many participants, the training is as important as the animals they receive.

5. Families build shelters and other facilities needed to keep animals healthy. Often, families build zero-grazing facilities - airy pens with elevated floors that keep animals with destructive grazing habits away from valuable crops. They also may plant trees and grasses to be used to feed their new animals.

6. Once families receive Heifer animals, they put their training to use. Soon, eggs, milk and meat improve nutrition. Extra eggs and milk can be sold to improve income, while animal manure fertilizes crops. Bees produce honey, and trees, vegetables, fruit and other crops begin to produce food, fuel and fibers. Water buffalo, oxen and camels provide draft power that makes farming and transportation much easier.

7. It's now time for project partners to pass on the gift of self-reliance to others. Heifer recipients pass one one or more of their animal's offspring, training and skills to another family in need. The new recipients agree to pass on the gift as well, creating a chain of giving that can touch thousands of lives.

8. Heifer project partners share stories of their successes with other groups. Project participants encourage others to seek Heifer's help so that they, too, can become self-reliant.

Music From Around the World

2007-08-21T11:17:00.001-04:00

Pam Clevenger has been playing the violin for 40 years. This year she'll be playing for us. Pam is busy assembling folk tunes from around the world to add spice to our market. So far her favorite music comes from Bosnia. Bosnian music is a mixture of Turkish and Middle-Eastern sounds. The most difficult music to find for violin has been African music because African music is so highly rhythmic.
Pam's favorite Heifer animal is the water buffalo, and she believes the best thing about Heifer is passing on the gift. Knowing that her animal donation won't stop with the person who receives it makes giving to Heifer inspiring.
Follow your ears to find Pam at the market. Music makes the whole world kin. Thanks, Pam, for working so hard to draw us together.

Children will be busy, busy, busy, at the Market.

2007-08-17T11:10:00.001-04:00

There has always been lots for children to see and do at Heifer Happening, but this year's market is bursting with activities even before they step in the door. Let's take a look at a young person's potential schedule at this year's market.

September 30--Pick up the Fill The Ark Bank and Calendar and begin the four week program of learning about world hunger and Heifer's friendly animal solutions. Start filling the bank one nickel at a time.
October 27--Head out to Heifer Happening.
Arrive at Wesley Park UMC and say hello to the Alpaca on the church lawn.
Receive the Market Passport filled with games and activities and opportunities to win prizes.
Dash over to the Change for Kids Challenge booth to have the change in the Ark bank counted and be entered into the "You Really Got Our Goat!" Competition.
Meet the animals and learn about how they help families provide food, clothing, shelter and education to children around the world.
Take a tour of the world by visiting the Project booths.
Listen to the Storyteller and learn some songs at the Heifer Theater. Hang around to see the video about Beatrice Biira, from the book Beatrice's Goat, now that she is all grown up.
Take a break and get some food downstairs. All this talk about World Hunger can sure get your tummy rumbling!
Drop by the craft table for face painting and fun craft projects with Lori.
Look at the cool fair-trade purchases mom made.
Say goodbye to the alpaca on your way back to the car, full of happy memories and dreams for a world without hunger.

Trees fight hunger too!

2007-08-15T12:59:00.001-04:00

Trees are essential to life on earth. They breathe out oxygen and breathe in carbon dioxide. They hold water in the soil and moisture in the air. They provide food and medicines for birds, animals and people. That's why planting fast-growing trees that put back nitrogen in the soil, serve as wind-breaks and provide fodder, fencing and firewood is often the first step in an HPI project.
Our project in Guatemala will be establishing tree nurseries to promote sustainable agricultural practices for soil conservation such as live barriers, terracing, irrigation channels, minimum tillage, use of stubble and vermiculture, steep slopes reforestation and implementation of a nursery in each community. The project in Vietnam will be using trees as living fences for the dairy cattle we will be providing them.
Come to the market and be sure to stop by the tree booth to find out all the many ways that Heifer trees are fighting hunger around the world.

Fish Booth Addition was Inspired!

2007-08-13T14:15:00.001-04:00

Kyle Christenson came to the first Living Gift Market and decided something was missing. We needed a fish booth! Kyle loves to fish, so he felt that we needed to know more about how fish contribute to the end of world hunger.
This year, Gambusia fish will be sent to the Navajo project. Gambusia fish are voracious eaters of mosquitoes and their larvae. Fish are often used in Heifer's Urban projects. The Living Machine aquaponic trough system provides space for a horticultural crop to be grown as well as the fish, either for personal consumption or for sale. These are just a few examples culled from Heifer projects that utilize fish.
Come to the market and get the full scoop on fish. Thanks, Kyle, for inspiring us. If you're feeling inspired to sponsor a booth, the fish booth is still available.

Three or Four Nickels

2007-08-07T19:59:00.000-04:00

Here is a sample of the daily readings from the four-week calendar that forms the backbone of the Change for Kids Challenge. Every night as families sit down to dinner they have a little paragraph like this one to read and a giving challenge.
Teaching children about world hunger is a difficult task for any parent to undertake. The Heifer Fill the Ark Calendar and Bank helps parents present the problem with enough hope that children come away from the experience feeling empowered instead of overwhelmed. Three or four nickels is all it takes to help children begin to understand the importance of helping others.
Won't you as a church family undertake to help your children begin the lifelong habit of remembering those who won't be eating before they sit down to dinner? One little boy put his lunch in Jesus hands and 5,000 were fed. Let's see what God will do with your children's spare change.

Goat Booth Welcomes Change for Kids Challenge Participants

2007-08-06T14:22:00.001-04:00

Jean Kuhlman, a market veteran and Judy Hyunh's sister, heads up our goat booth. Her granddaughter, Ali Chipman, has a good 4H goat that she brings to the market, and her grandmother prepares the booth. When I asked Jean what she liked best about goats, she said it was their versatility. Goats are easy to raise and fun.
Although they appear tough and gruff, goats are actually so gentle that it's usually the family's children who regularly care for them. In this way, goats really do become "nannies;" teaching their young caregivers all kinds of skills while building their self-esteem.
More and more children around the world are getting their protein from goat's milk. That's because goats thrive in extreme climates where other livestock can't, and eat grasses and leaves that cause other animals to turn up their noses (or snouts)! And if it's a Heifer goat, one struggling family can receive up to a gallon of milk from it every single day. That's more than enough milk not only to drink, but to use to make cheese, butter or yogurt, plus to sell whatever's left and buy much-needed clothes, school supplies and medicine.
We're sure that Jean and Ali will be busy this year as the children who have been saving up change for the Change for Kids Challenge drop by to see this year's star animal--the goat.
The goat booth is sponsored by Grand River Physical Therapy this year.

Change for Kids Challenge Update

2007-08-03T11:16:00.000-04:00

In order to help churches get to the information about the Change for Kids Challenge more directly, I've created a special blog just for this aspect of Heifer Happening. As churches sign up, I'll post that information there, as well as details of the contest.
You can view the blog at http://changeforkids.blogspot.com/.

LaFont sees the Ducks and Geese. Sheep go Underground.

2007-08-02T08:08:00.000-04:00

The LaFontsee Gallery/Underground Studio is sponsoring both the Ducks and Geese booth and the Sheep booth. An eye for truth and beauty inspired these important members of the local art scene to see the value of ending hunger. The LaFontsee Gallery is no newcomer to charitable activities. They are currently involved in supporting numerous charities of many sorts including God's Kitchen, Gilda's Club, and the Urban Institute for the Contemporary Arts.
Ducks and sheep will be given to the Navajo Project. The ducks will be part of an early detection system for the West Nile Virus, allowing the community to take action against the spread of the disease before it reaches levels threatening to humans and larger livestock. The sheep are part of a selective breeding program that aims to improve the genes of the local sheep herd.
Thank you, LaFontsee Galleries, for having the vision to provide hope.

All a Buzz about the Cow Booth

2007-08-01T08:37:00.000-04:00

Carolyn Buskirk has the warm knowing voice of a grandmother. As we settled into our conversation about the cow booth, it was obvious that she loves working at the market. Carolyn has been a part of Heifer Happening since the first market when KeLinda Scott asked if there was anyone who could help with the animal booths. The Buskirks had been dairy farmers, so Carolyn took on the cow booth.
Making it fun for the children who come to the market was one of Carolyn's first considerations so she incorporated a game. "I enjoy the little children and watching them play the game I made for the booth. The game is a wheel with a spinner divided up into the different Heifer animals. Each child gets five spins of the wheel and if it lands on the cow they get a prize. They almost always get a prize even if it doesn’t land on the cow," she says with a chuckle.
Carolyn also values the opportunity to help people understand the importance of cows, and the value of milk. A single Heifer cow can deliver up to four gallons of protein-packed milk every day. Giving one of these cows to a hungry family changes their lives. These four gallons of milk provide children with the nourishment they need to head off to school. A school that many children are able to attend only because of their Heifer cow. Income earned by selling surplus milk pays for tuition as well as medicine, clothing and better housing.
Heifer cows can help crops grow. They are after all a natural fertilizer factory. Because a healthy cow can have a calf every year, the gift of a cow could eventually help an entire community move from poverty to self-reliance.
Brann's Steakhouse is proudly sponsoring the cow booth this year, and they've provided Carolyn with coupons for the first 100 visitors. Make sure you stop by the cow booth early.

Our First Press Kit is Finished and Available

2007-07-31T16:50:00.001-04:00

For the first time, we are offering the media a press kit. We have gathered together all the details of the Living Gift Market including photos, interviews with market volunteers, and other useful information. Writers and members of the media may request one through our email address, heiferhappening@gmail.com. One kit per media outlet only. Thanks.

Steve Ellens will present "Meet Dan West"

2007-07-27T10:57:00.001-04:00

Steve Ellens, of Master Arts Theater, will be presenting the monologue "Meet Dan West" at the Market this year. With decades of experience in more that 50 plays, he is sure to capture the spirit of Heifer's visionary founder. Steve is already preparing for the role by listening to recordings of Dan West speaking and rehearsing the script. He is hoping to find a video of Dan to further enable him to bring the character to life.
This isn't a new kind of project for Steve, he was also tapped to present a monologue about an influential doctor at Butterworth Hospital. Steve has directed plays and appeared in commercials. Working with Master Arts Theater seemed like a natural choice. "It’s basically a Christian Theater. They do good work, nothing half-way. I liked acting before so it was a double benefit, I could do Christian work and still act." Working with the troupe has also opened other doors for Steve expanding his career.
Steve's favorite Heifer animal is the cow. He was a farm boy for eighteen years, growing up with Holsteins. We're so glad that Steve will be able to bring some of Heifer's history to life.

Affordable Feasts Sponsors Pig Booth

2007-07-26T13:07:00.000-04:00

Affordable Feasts knows a good bargain when they see one, after all they are experts in feasting Grand Rapids for less. Their legendary pig roast is a sure crowd-pleaser.
This year the pigs purchased at the Living Gift Market will be going to an orphanage in Poland where they will not only provide much needed income to keep the orphanage solvent, they will also provide comfort to the children and skills they can take into adulthood.
Thank you, Affordable Feasts, for making certain that Grand Rapidians aren't the only ones at the table.

While you're shopping, check out Esperanza en Accion

2007-07-26T12:28:00.000-04:00

Esperanza en Accion will be bringing fair-trade goods from Nicaragua to sell at this year's LGM. Committed to paying fair prices to the artisans, seamstresses, and coffee growers of Nicaragua, Esperanza is changing lives in the second poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. Many of the families that work with Esperanza en Accion start out with nothing, but when they begin receiving fair wages they are able to send their children to school, build safe homes and provide for their family's day to day needs.
Be sure to stop by the table filled with pottery, jewelry, baskets, clothing and coffee from Nicaragua, and take some time to learn about the importance of fair-trade goods.

Doctor Satterlee cares for Zambian Project

2007-07-09T11:10:00.000-04:00

Dr. Linda Satterlee of Belding has agreed to sponsor the Zambian project at this year's Living Gift Market. As a doctor she knows the importance of good nutrition and the power of putting hope in the hands of young people. We know the young people of the Monze Diocese of Zambia will be glad for the help.
We certainly are.

Quality Industrial Services takes on the Polish orphanage project.

2007-07-09T11:00:00.000-04:00

Quality Industrial Services know a thing or two about how to help a small business expand. The Eagle's Orphanage project is a small farming enterprise that will supply vital funds to support the orphanage. The training in good farm practices will also help the orphans be prepared with life-skills they can take away into adulthood.
Thank you, QIS. We are glad we passed your inspection.

H and W Farms Sponsors Guatemala Project

2007-07-08T12:39:00.000-04:00

H and W Farms

From one farmer to another H and W Farms, which processes one million pounds of cherries and one hundred thousand bushels of apples annually, offers support to Guatemalan farmers as they seek to become self-sufficient. This is a particularly appropriate match as organic farming methods and a tree nursery are an important part of the Guatemalan project.
Thank you, H and W Farms for passing on the gift of your success.

Navajo Project sponsored by BHT and D Financial Group

2007-07-06T12:18:00.000-04:00

If anyone is able to way the merits of Heifer's approach to helping the poor it has to be Biggs, Hausserman, Thompson and Dickinson. BHT and D Financial Group has been providing sound financial advice to Grand Rapids businesses since 1971. We are proud to have them sponsor our Navajo Project.
Thank you, BHT and D. We appreciate your support.

Dan Vos Construction Company sponsors the Vietnam Project

2007-06-27T11:45:00.000-04:00

A pillar in the community, recently finishing their 150th church building, Dan Vos Construction knows the value of a good foundation. For families in Vietnam, a cow can be the foundation of a successful dairy business that will make the difference between struggling to survive and success. Dan Vos Construction's sponsorship will help us raise the necessary funds to offer these families fresh hope and a strong beginning.

Thank you, Dan Vos Construction, for continuing your commitment to community service in a way that will touch the world.

Grand River Physical Therapy sponsors the Goat Booth

2007-06-27T11:25:00.000-04:00

We would like to thank Gail Braun of Grand River Physical Therapy for agreeing to sponsor our Goat Booth. Physical Therapists specialize in relieving stress and promoting success in overcoming obstacles. By sponsoring the Goat Booth they will be doing both for families in need.
Grand River Physical Therapists offers a comprehensive list of services in a beautiful and well-stocked facility.

Thank you, GRPTS for helping us get our goat!

You Really Got Our Goat, Trophies

2007-06-26T15:27:00.001-04:00

We are excited to announce that the organization and the individual who bring in the most change for our Change for Kids Challenge will receive our fabulous--"You Really Got Our Goat!" Trophy.
The five inch trophy with gold-colored goat on a black and marble-grain base is sure to add a special something to any mantle.
Of course, anyone who helps change a child's future is a winner in our book. We hope you'll do your part to make sure that we really do "Get Our Goat!"

Our Guatemalan Project is the destination for our Change for Kids Goat

2007-06-26T15:13:00.000-04:00

GUATEMALA Food Security/Q’eqchi
23-0102-02

A total of 112 Maya Q’eqchi families from the regions of Carcha, Chicojl, and Cojal in north-central Guatemala will participate in this project in partnership with FUNDAMENO (Q’eqchi’ Mennonite Foundation of Guatemala). It will improve the nutritional and economic situation of the participating families by providing rabbits, turkeys, and goats. Families will be trained in animal management and in the production of organic vegetables. This project will improve overall agricultural production by incorporating worm-composting and diversification of crops, while promoting the conservation of natural resources through the establishment of tree nurseries and sustainable agriculture practices.

This project is special because it is the destination of our "Change for Kids Challenge" goat. Kids from Grand Rapids will be raising funds to purchase a goat by saving their change in our special "Ark" banks. We need a business to sponsor this special project. If you like helping "kids," this could be the one for you. Contact us at heiferhappening@gmail.com.

Living Gift Markets: A Growing Phenomenon

2007-06-20T11:19:00.000-04:00

Holding a Living Gift Market isn't limited to Grand Rapids, there are many gift markets held around the country. I've been doing a little research and here's a few I found online.
North Manchester, IN has held a LGM since 1988 and they have managed to raise 310,000 dollars in that time span. This year they raised over 20,000 dollars.
Wright County, MN holds a Baby Animal Fair each year. This year 3,000 people attended and 13,000 dollars were raised.
West Hartford, CT has a sixth grade class that raised 18,500 dollars at their Living Gift Market in 2006.
Our Living Gift Market is a growing event, each year we get a little bigger and we go a little further. Now is a great time to get involved.

Vietnamese Dairy Production in the Mekong Delta

2007-06-19T11:26:00.000-04:00

VIETNAM Promotion of Dairy Production
22-0775-07

This project will provide 50 dairy cows to 40 families in the Mekong Delta to increase the project family's income. Four dairy cooperatives will be set up in four villages to promote small scale dairy production and to improve the animal health in these areas.

Heifer Viet Nam will implement this project through the four dairy cooperatives which will be set up in these four villages. The animals will be distributed through the cooperatives to individual families. Training and other technical services will also be arranged through the cooperatives. Men and women equally share the leadership roles and responsibilities in the cooperative groups. Passing on the Gift will be managed by the cooperatives and the groups will also assist individual members with milk marketing.

Grass seeds will be distributed to the farmers to grow feed for the cows. Families will receive young seedlings to build living fences, which are fences made by growing trees, especially nitrogen fixing trees. The living fences will provide shade, fencing, animal feed, firewood and also prevent soil erosion.

This project is sponsored by Dan Vos Construction. If your business would like to sponsor one of our remaining projects, please contact us through our email, heiferhappening@gmail.com.

Judy Huynh's Read to Feed Table for Teachers

2007-06-18T11:40:00.000-04:00

Karen Merchant takes a moment to chat with Judy Huynh at our Read to Feed Booth.

Judy Huynh works at our Read to Feed table. When I asked her about Read to Feed her answers were so good I'm going to let her speak for herself.

Read to Feed is a curriculum developed by Heifer to teach young people about sustainable solutions toward ending poverty and hunger in the world and to help them learn that they can make a difference in the world.The curriculum integrates all content areas. Teachers can choose to do one lesson or all the lessons. They may choose to have students involved in gathering pledges for books read to raise money for Heifer, if they wish.
Read to Feed benefits children here because they become better readers and global citizens; they understand that they can make a difference in the world by how they live their lives, and they can help children around the world to have better lives. If they choose to collect pledges for the books they read and send it to Heifer, that money will help children in the places where the money is sent to have food to eat and the opportunity to get an education. Even if students don't participate in the collecting of money for books read, they learn about the causes of hunger and poverty in the world, and they learn to make better choices in their own lives, which will impact children all around the world.
I just received a letter last week notifying me that I have been selected to serve as a member of Heifer's new School Programs Advisory Council. As a member of this council, I will be providing comments, feedback and expertise on the development and implementation of the new elementary/primary grade program for Read to Feed. Our first meeting will be a conference call on June 18th. I'm really excited about participating in this.
I have done presentations on Heifer and Read to Feed at county, state, and national conferences for teachers. I have also done workshops on Heifer for 4-H. Lynda Richter, Olga Albert, Pam Trevan and I have presented twice together in Ionia County in costume! Pam has a chicken costume, Olga has a lamb costume, Lynda has a chicken costume, and I have a cow costume! It's really fun.
To learn more about Read to Feed visit Heifer's website, readtofeed.org.

Brann's Steakhouse's Bull and Heifer Make a Great Pair!

2007-06-13T11:10:00.000-04:00

We are thrilled to announce that Brann's Steakhouse and Grille will be sponsoring this year's cow booth. Sponsoring animal booths is another way that local businesses can support the Living Gift Market.
Cows are Heifer International's signature animals and not just because of the inspiration they provided Dan West. A single Heifer cow can deliver up to four gallons of protein-packed milk every day. Giving one of these cows to a hungry family changes their lives.
These four gallons of milk provide children with the nourishment they need to head off to school. A school that many children are able to attend only because of their Heifer cow. Income earned by selling surplus milk pays for tuition as well as medicine, clothing and better housing.
Heifer cows can help crops grow. They are after all a natural fertilizer factory.
Because a healthy cow can have a calf every year, a cow can eventually help an entire community move from poverty to self-reliance.

Thank you, Brann's for your gracious support.

St. Mary's Zambian Youth Dairy Project

2007-06-09T10:24:00.001-04:00

ZAMBIA St. Mary’s Youth Dairy Project
21-0118-02

The project is located in the Monze district, in the southern province. St. Mary’s area is characterized by large families, high unemployment rates and poor household food security. Members of the group are youth organized by the Catholic Monze Diocese to encourage positive behavior. Some 15 youths were initially assisted with dairy cattle in 2000. Heifer Zambia will provide an additional 40 high-producing dairy heifers to an additional 20 youths, to increase income levels through the sale of excess milk and improve household food security.

This project is sponsored by Dr. Linda Satterlee.

Our Gracious Host, Wesley Park United Methodist Church

2007-06-06T15:59:00.000-04:00

For the third year in a row, Wesley Park United Methodist Church has agreed to host Heifer Happening. Located at 1150 32nd St. SW in Wyoming, this vibrant congregation makes space for us not just on the day of the event, but they also host our planning meetings.
Wesley Park has a commitment to the community that shines through in it's many ministries. My favorite Wesley Park idea is their recycling efforts. What a great way to honor our stewardship of this planet. They are also hosting the worship experience U2Charist which features the music of U2, and the work of the One Campaign.
Take some time to explore their interesting website and get to know this fascinating church.

Pigs for a Polish Orphanage

2007-06-04T16:41:00.000-04:00

POLAND Swine Project for Eagle's Nest Orphanage
27-0634-01

This project is designed to improve the nutrition and financial situation of the children in the Marwica orphanage through pig breeding and organic farming. The Eagle’s Nest Orphanage in Marwica is a state-owned institution financed from public funds. It suffers from a shortage of resources, and headmaster Dariusz Wasinski and other staff must constantly seek additional sources of financing. Most of the 70 children (between the ages of 3 and 18) in the orphanage are “social orphans,” given up by their parents because of financial hardship or removed from their homes by the court order due to lack of proper parental care. Most of them came from rural areas and have been exposed to farm activities in the past. Eight sows will be provided to the orphanage farm, as well as training in pig breeding and organic farming. This will not only improve the children’s nutrition, but will teach them practical skills that may prove useful in their adult lives. Moreover, farm activities will involve them in meaningful work which may ease their emotional problems.

Quality Industrial Services has agreed to sponsor this project.

Our Project Display Designer, Ashley Gerou

2007-06-02T20:26:00.001-04:00

We are thrilled to announce that Ashley Gerou, a student at Kendall College of Art and Design has agreed to create our Project Displays. Ashley says she was inspired to become an artist by her great-grandmother. The two of them used to bond over art projects. Ashley cites her great-grandmother and Claude Monet as the artists that have had the most influence on her style. She says "those two artists have more of a classical approach and a subtle elegance which I like to portray in my works."
When I asked Ashley what drew her to volunteer to help us, she said that many organizations just make donations of money, but Heifer actually helps these countries produce their own income and that aspect made our gift market seem like a good project to help out. She hopes that her designs are "an appealing showcase of what is being done so it will help others understand, relate and contribute to the organization in a simple, yet eye-catching manner."
Ashley desires to work in the fashion industry doing graphic design for magazines when she finishes her studies. We are sure we'll be proud to say we "knew her when...."
Thank you, Ashley for your donation of time and imagination.

Peru Project

2007-05-30T10:47:00.000-04:00

PERU La Union Integrated Ecological Management Project
23-0238-70

This project will improve the nutrition and income of 540 families of limited means in La Union, Peru. The participants are members of the Association of Organic Crop Growers and the La Union Women’s Federation. Families will receive guinea pigs, chickens, worms, beehives, and alpacas. In addition, dehydrators for medicinal plants will be installed, and basic veterinary medical kits and revolving seed banks will be established.

This project is being sponsored by Russ' Restaurants. We have five other equally worthy projects still looking for sponsors. If your local business is interested, please contact us at heiferhappening@gmail.com.

Russ' Restaurant Sponsors Peru Project!

2007-05-30T10:40:00.000-04:00

Russ' Restaurant has always been all about ending hunger and doing so deliciously! We are proud to announce that Russ' will be partnering with us to end hunger not just here in West Michigan but also in Peru.
Thank you, Russ' for your support and community spirit.

Navajo Project

2007-05-22T10:09:00.000-04:00

NAVAJO U.S. Genetic Improvement for Scrapies Resistant Sheep
26-0631-02

The Genetic Improvement for Scrapie-Resistant Sheep project is located in a disadvantaged area of the Navajo Nation with over 58 percent of the people living below the poverty line. There is a high high-school drop-out rate and an increasing suicide rate among youths. This project offers an opportunity to 90 FFA members to gain knowledge, new skills and self-esteem by doing applied research that combines aquaculture of Gambusia fish to control the mosquito transmitter of the West Nile virus with five species of pastured poultry to monitor the virus, and have an early detection of the virus in birds at a stage where damage to the sheep, horses and humans can be prevented. This project will also involve the genetic selection of Suffolk sheep with RR genes, which will equip the students with new tools to raise animals resistant to Scrapie and other mosquito-transmitted diseases. It will increase the potential of developing profitable sheep production, enabling them to carry on their native traditions with the training and animals received. This is a new youth project of high importance to Heifer’s Southwest Program because of its social, environmental and economic impact.

This project has been sponsored by BHT and D Financial Group.

Ducks and Geese, but no chicks!

2007-05-19T10:25:00.000-04:00

Phyllis Karsina is more than happy to man the ducks and geese table--after we decided a "Fowl" booth was a stinker of an idea and gave the chickens a booth of their own.
Phyllis was introduced to Heifer by her son. After doing some further research, she was impressed with the way that Heifer helps people. Retirement means that Phyllis has some spare time to donate, and Heifer was a natural place to volunteer.
This isn't Phyllis' first stint working at an animal booth. At the 2005 Living Gift Market, she helped out at the rabbit booth. Last year she worked at the Heifer products booth, and this year she wanted to do more. Since working tables at the LGM is a better fit for Phyllis than public speaking, Nancy suggested she keep the minutes of the organizing committee's meetings. Phyllis has been doing a great job of keeping everything straight.
When I asked Phyllis to name her favorite Heifer animal, she had a hard time. "I like all animals except chickens and cannot really say I have a favorite." I guess it's a good thing we separated those birds. We would hate to "fowl up" our relationship with one of our best volunteers.

This year's logo!

2007-05-18T09:56:00.000-04:00

Dazzled by the amazing designs Lori Heintz created, it took us a while to choose just one. The votes are finally in, and this is our official logo. All those beautiful, life-saving animals won our hearts. Great Job, Lori!

Our Six Featured Projects!

2007-05-16T10:12:00.000-04:00

NAVAJO
Genetic Improvement for Scrapies Resistant Sheep
20-0631-02

GUATEMALA
FUNDAMENO; Food Security Project for Q'eqchi Maya Communities/Alta Vera Paz
23-0102-02

PERU
La Union Integrated Ecological Management Project
23-0238-70

POLAND
Swine Project for the Children of the Eagle's Nest Orphanage in Marwica
27-0634-01

VIETNAM
Promotion of Small Scale Dairy Production in the Mekong Delta
22-0775-07

ZAMBIA
St. Mary's Dairy Youth Dairy Project Phase II
21-0118-02

Change for Kids Challenge

2007-05-15T09:25:00.000-04:00

A goat can make a huge difference in the life of a child in a developing country. Any doubt about that can be dispelled by the story of Beatrice Biira, retold in the best-selling, children's book Beatrice's Goat. When Mugisa (their goat) arrived, the family had been struggling just to survive, but after Mugisa they had enough money to send Beatrice to school. Beatrice is now a student at a college in the U.S., and the subject of a recent special on 60 Minutes.
We'd like to challenge West Michigan's children to save enough change to purchase a goat, so that another girl or boy can benefit in the same way Beatrice has. Local churches and schools can get involved by requesting Ark banks and calendars that will help the children save their change. Children will then bring their banks to the Living Gift Market, and we'll keep track to see which organization brought in the most change to make the biggest difference.
To get your organization in on the act, contact us through our email address--heiferhappening@gmail.com

Sponsors Wanted

2007-05-14T09:41:00.000-04:00

Six hand-picked Heifer projects from around the world will add a new dimension to this year's market. Special, round display tables will educate market-visitors about Heifer's work in each of the six areas of the world, the project itself, what the project needs that market-visitors can purchase from our animal booths, and about the project's sponsor.
Project sponsorship is a new way for local businesses to become involved with Heifer Happening. Presentation teams from the market's organizing committee will be recruiting business owners to adopt a project for the simple fee of 100 dollars. In return for their donation, sponsoring businesses will be highlighted in our press kit, in our Market Passport, and at their project's display.
We are looking for businesses that are eager to partner with us to end hunger around the world. Like all of Heifer's work, we'd prefer strong local organizations. If you are a business owner, or you know of a business that might be interested in sponsoring a project, please contact us at heiferhappening@gmail.com.

Bees in Her Genes

2007-05-13T10:17:00.000-04:00

"I feel like a fraud, I do not have any bees myself!" Jeanne Smith said when I emailed her about her booth for last year's Heifer Happening. It turns out Jeanne is just a willing volunteer with a fascination for bees. Her lavish display included a beehive she borrowed from a friend. However, beekeeping might be in her genes, her great-grandfather was a beekeeper.

From India to the Dominican Republic, bees from Heifer International help struggling families earn income through the sale of honey, beeswax and pollen.

Beehives require almost no space, and once established, are inexpensive to maintain. As bees search for nectar, they pollinate plants. Placed strategically, beehives can as much as double some fruit and vegetable yields. In this way, a beehive can be a boon to a whole village.

Although most Heifer partners keep bees as a supplement to family income, beekeeping can be a family's livelihood. Your gift provides a family with a package of bees, the box and hive, and training in beekeeping.

Jeanne and her husband Phil will bee back again at this year's market, ready to help you understand and support Heifer's special helpers--Bees!

Fearless Leadership

2007-05-12T13:01:00.000-04:00

Nancy Spalenka is a busy woman. As the Heifer Volunteer Coordinator for Southwest Michigan, she coordinates speaking engagements, makes presentations, and leads the effort for the annual Living Gift Market.
Nancy has been a Heifer Volunteer since April 27, 1983 when the United Methodist Church invited two people from her district to come to a workshop about Heifer Project International. Over the last 24 years, she's done 114 presentations for Heifer, and attended 11 workshops.
Her most dramatic training experience with Heifer was a study tour to Honduras in April of 2005. Members of the group met with AHPROCAFE, a coffee growers association that Heifer is helping to supplement the grower's income by adding honey bees to their activities. The photo above was taken of Nancy as she met with a group of women who called themselves "Struggling Together." The women grow coffee and they shared with Nancy the hardships of their life while they roasted coffee beans. Nancy also met with another group of Lenca women who had received chickens, pigs and cows. These women served lunch from a primitive outdoor oven.
Even before her trip to Honduras, Nancy was convinced that Heifer was doing important work that changes lives. Her tireless efforts to raise fund and awareness inspire all of us.

What is a Living Gift Market?

2007-05-07T08:52:00.000-04:00

If you could have any gift you wished, what would it be? Peace on earth? An end to hunger? Preservation of the environment? Education for a child? We have just the place where you can "purchase" these items--the Heifer Happening, Living Gift Market.
Our market "sells" food and income-producing animals like goats, bees, chicks and heifers. The animals go to resource-poor families working to improve their lives. Heifer International also provides technical training in the care of the animals and in preserving and healing the environment.
The Market gives over and over again. You honor a friend or loved one with an attractive card describing the gift you have bought in their honor. You empower an impoverished family with an animal and training in its care. The family shares its knowledge and the animal's first offspring with another family. And that family shares. That's the power of Heifer's cornerstone value--passing on the gift.
In all this you will find a gift for yourself as well--less hustle and bustle shopping time, a gift of gratitude that you have true abundance to share.
Come and experience the power of alternative giving. Come to Heifer Happening this year.

Heifer's Cornerstone Principles

2007-04-26T11:58:00.000-04:00

Passing on the Gift allows families and individuals who have received animals to be donors themselves. This spirit of goodwill ripples through the community as animals are passed on and bonds are formed in a group effort to better their own lives.

Accountability allows for organization at the grassroots level. Community members decide together what kind of animal and assistance they would like. They also set goals, plan appropriate strategies to achieve those goals and evaluate their success.

Sharing & Caring embodies Heifer’s belief that global problems can be solved if all people are committed to sharing what they have and caring about others.

Sustainability & Self-reliance is necessary for the long-term success of projects. Heifer can only fund a project for a limited time so the families Heifer works with must plan to support themselves.

Improved Animal Management means that project participants learn how to keep their animals safe, healthy and productive through proper food, shelter, healthcare and reproductive management.

Nutrition & Income are the rewards Heifer expects recipients to reap from their gift animal through the consumption and/or sale of products such as milk, eggs, cheese, honey and wool.

Gender & Family Focus encourages women and men to share in decision making as well as in the benefits the animals and training bring.

Genuine Need & Justice ensures that those most in need are given priority in receiving animals and training.

Improving the Environment includes such agroecological techniques as improving soil fertility with animal manure, promoting forestation, respecting and encouraging biodiversity, monitoring watershed conditions and minimizing erosion.

Full Participation is expected in groups that Heifer works with. Leaders at the grassroots level should be committed to involving all members in decision making.

Training & Education include formal sessions as well as informal farm visits and demonstrations. Each project group decides on their own training needs and local people are involved as trainers. Some topics of education include human nutrition, food processing, marketing and leadership development.

Spirituality is expressed in common values, common beliefs about the value and meaning of all life, a sense of connectedness to the earth and a shared vision of the future. Heifer International works with people of all beliefs in our efforts to overcome poverty and hunger.

How does Heifer distribute the animals we purchase at the LGM?

2007-04-20T09:37:00.000-04:00