December 15, 2014

A Flock Of Hope For Christmas? Yes Please...


As Christmas Day draws near, the pressure of gift giving continues to cause many to stalk websites and the local mall for last minute thrills and deals that will bring their loved ones joy and happiness. Although, if you're like me, you probably could do without another blue sweater that will likely find its way to the back of the closet.

Well have no fear, your own personal Christmas elf is here. For years, we have incorporated the gift of farm animals under our Christmas tree. There are many non~profit organizations that would love to see your tax deductible donation fund their efforts to improve the lives of animals and communities. If a combo gift is to your liking, you could always make a donation, and couple it with a small gift that represents the animal you are giving or adopting. For example, one year we "adopted" for our niece Cueball, who is a seal from the Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito. An organization that rescues and rehabilitates our struggling water friends. With the official certificate of adoption, we sent along a book about a seal. A perfect surprise for the kiddo in your life, who will be able to enjoy your gift with a nice reminder that part it went to save the life of a seal.

If land mammals are more up your alley, there are farms throughout the U.S. that offer up the same gift giving options. And then there is, of course, the international rockstar Heifer International. After quickly perusing the site, you can purchase an animal (or a portion of an animal) that will be donated to individuals in third world communities to generate income to sustain their families. But more importantly, the end result of Heifer International has been proven to change the dynamics of underdeveloped countries, provides woman and girls professional opportunities, and gives communities the pride of learning new ways of utilizing an animal as the ultimate catalyst for independence.

If you would like to visit a few sites for your last minute holiday gifts, I have linked my top three favorites below. Wishing you a lovely holiday and a super 2015.

www.heifer.org
www.marinemammalcenter.org
www.farmsanctuary.org



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