Passing on the Gift in Guatemala

At every Heifer International Passing on the Gift Ceremony, the joy of sharing shines from participants' faces. Here, at the Tunayac Project in Guatemala, the women call the ceremony "a dream come true."

"Other organizations come and disappear," said participant Julio Abac Real, "but we know Heifer International will remain."

"Now we have so much,," added Flavia Martinez, "and we do not want to be selfish, but to help our neighbors."

At another Heifer project in nearby Paraiso, the women have formed a strong community group. Project Leader Maria said at first it was difficult for the women to unite.

"All the women in our village were scared to come to a group meeting," she remembers. "The custom to participate is not part of our culture. But slowly, we learned to how to participate and be strong in front of others. Today, we are convinced we must work hand-in-hand to make a difference.

"Being together, working together is the right way," Maria continued. "When we are not together, we have no value. It is the same with fire, when there is lots of wood we can make a good fire. With only one, we cannot."

Help other women in Guatemala pass on the gift. Give to Heifer International.