Happy New Year!

A new year has begun and we are excited about the new opportunities this year brings. This year marks the 65th anniversary of the first shipment of dairy cattle in what would become a campaign that would save the lives of millions. Today, Heifer International continues Dan West's dedication to ending hunger and poverty and caring for the earth. We are proud that Heifer's roots are right here in the Midwest. Every day around the world, Heifer project participants work toward sustainable communities where people care for the earth as they care for their families and neighbors. Our generous donors make this possible and our dedicated volunteers make it happen.

As our volunteer network has grown across the Midwest Region, we have two important volunteering goals for 2009: (1) to recruit and train additional area volunteer coordinators and (2) to host volunteer trainings/workshops around the twelve-state region. We need volunteers at every level and in every state. We also need volunteers who can share their knowledge, commitment, and organizational skills as area volunteer coordinators to create volunteer communities - connecting volunteers to each other and supporting each others efforts. If this sounds like you, please give us a call. If you are interested in organizing a workshop in your area, let us know that too!

As Heifer International continues to grow, so do our opportunities to present our mission to churches, civic groups, schools, conferences, and other groups. We also have many opportunities to help people achieve their charitable goals through gifts to Heifer International. As a volunteer, you are key to making these efforts successful.

While we take stock of our accomplishments this past year, we also ask you to fill out and return the volunteer survey that was enclosed in our most recent newsletter. This information is important as we want to know more about your volunteer experience this year and your interests in volunteering in 2009. If we may be of any assistance to you in your work with Heifer, or you have additional reflections on your volunteer experience, please let us know. If you are interested in getting involved as new volunteer, contact us for a volunteer interest form.

Happy 2009 to all of you! We hope the new year brings you peace, joy, and prosperty!