The Heifer Global Village
Shepherd's Spring has begun construction of a Heifer Global Village, a site
complete with international homes, gardens and animals that represent several
of the countries in which Heifer International works to improve people's sources
of nutrition and income through the gift of livestock and training. The Heifer
Global Village is one method that Heifer, a non-profit organization working to
end world hunger and poverty in a way that cares for the earth, uses to raise
awareness of hunger and poverty.
The Heifer Global Village at Shepherd's Spring will expand Heifer's educational reach and assist Shepherd's Spring in its ability to promote peace, justice and understanding among the world's people. The experience-based Heifer Global Village programs explore the issues of global poverty and hunger while challenging people to examine their own habits, consumption patterns and beliefs to become more responsible global citizens.
Construction and implementation of the Heifer Global Village sites and programs will occur in stages. Guatemala House is currently under construction. Work days are scheduled for September 20, October 25, and November 8. Volunteers are needed to help with the house, animal pen and trail construction.
Through the Heifer Global Village, Shepherd's Spring plans to eventually include four different programs and a total of seven homes including Guatemala, Mozambique, Kenya, China, Thailand, the United States and a refugee site. All homes are expected to be completed by spring 2010 with the final program being implemented by fall 2010.
The Heifer Global Village at Shepherd's Spring will sit on 10 acres with approximately 1/2 acre for each site. The Village construction costs are estimated at $120,000. Shepherd's Spring is currently accepting donations to fund this project.
Cultural Connections programs are available beginning September 24, 2008. Cultural Connections introduces 4th -6th graders to the culture of another country. Guatemala will be the first country explored using games, clothing and food. The program takes approximately four hours and is available for groups of up to 30 persons. Please call 301-223-8193 to schedule your Cultural Connections program.
A Grand opening of the Heifer Global Village at Shepherd's Spring is planned for May 9, 2009. Watch for more information as the time gets closer!