This weekly post shines a light on a handful of stories from Heifer.org’s “From the Field”
section.
Rogelio “Rolly” Abes Jr., a 40-year-old Filipino farmer, was doubtful Heifer International would make a difference. But his perspective changed after joining a self-help group (SHG).
“The Cornerstones brought me to light,” he said. “I went home renewed and excited to start a new life on the right path.”
Rolly began caring for his community. His family taught others how to overcome hunger and poverty through Heifer’s Passing on the Gift® (POG) model. And he started a vermicomposting business – using earthworms to make compost.
He is committed to working with others. He dreams his SHG will become the Regional Center of Organic Producers. Rolly said Heifer returned their dignity so they could rise above poverty.

Rolly works with organic fertilizer on his farm. Photo by Leslie Pascua Jr., CORD Coordinator. Photo courtesy of Heifer Philippines
Farmers in Armenia also believe Heifer is making a difference. Haykush and her family maintain a small garden and sell hay. They dreamed of raising livestock… but were never able.
Now they own a cow and its calf. Haykush makes cheese, butter and sour cream from its milk – a great tasting benefit. The family is confident in their new future.
Armen Zakharyan is just starting his new beginning. His family lives in a remote mountain village with about 420 people. Many of these families work together in a farmers cooperation.
The co-op reduces farmer’s expenses and provides practical training. Armen said, “Cooperative members’ belief and devotion is the most important thing in this initiative.”












