Heifer
International has 12 essential principles that guide its work. These principles are called the Cornerstones
for Just and Sustainable Development, or simply the Cornerstones.
Passing on the Gift – Passing on the Gift
is at the heart of Heifer International’s sustainable community development
philosophy. Every family who receives an
animal signs a contract to pass on one or more of their animal’s offspring to
another family in need, along with the training and skills that they have
acquired. This unique approach creates a
ripple effect that transforms lives and communities.
Accountability – Heifer provides
guidelines for planning projects, screening recipients, monitoring progress,
and conducting self-evaluations. The
groups define their own needs, set goals, and plan appropriate strategies to
achieve them. They are also responsible
for submitting semi-annual monitoring reports to Heifer International.
Sharing & Caring – We can solve the
world’s problems if everyone commits to sharing what they have and caring about
others. One of Heifer’s most important
Cornerstones, sharing and caring is an integral part of its vision for a just
world.
Sustainability & Self-Reliance –
Because Heifer funds projects for a limited time, project groups must devise
strategies for their continuity. In
Heifer’s experience, self-reliance is most easily achieved when a group has
varied activities and generates support from several sources.
Improved Animal Management – Feed,
water, shelter, reproductive efficiency, and health are the essential
ingredients in successful livestock management.
The animal must be an appropriate breed for the area and should be a
vital part of the farm activities without placing an extra burden on the family
or resources.
Nutrition & Income – Livestock
contribute directly to human nutrition by providing high-quality protein. Indirectly, the provide draft power for
cultivation and transportation, as well as manure for soil fertility. Livestock provide income for education,
healthcare, and housing, and as living savings accounts, they provide long-term
economic stability.
Gender & Family Focus – In Heifer’s
work, gender equity is central to success.
Men and women must work side by side in equally respected roles and
responsibilities for a family to create a better future. This is why Heifer confronts issues of
patriarchy and inequality head on.
Genuine Need & Justice – Heifer is
a partner to people in need who can improve their quality of life with modest
support. Priority is given to
marginalized groups. The poorest in the
community should be included and receive priority for assistance. Families are eligible regardless of creed or
ethnic heritage.
Improving the Environment – Caring for
the Earth is a huge part of Heifer’s mission and is present in every
project. Projects are designed to have a
positive impact on one or more of the following: soil erosion, soil fertility,
sanitation, forestation, biodiversity, pollution, wildlife, and watershed conditions.
Full Participation – Virtually everyone
in communities where Heifer works has something to contribute. Heifer calls everyone to the table,
especially women living in cultures where they have traditionally been excluded
or undervalued. Our actions create big
change and, therefore, must take everyone’s opinions into account.
Training & Education – Groups
determine their own training needs, and local people are involved as
trainers. Training includes formal
sessions as well as informal farm visits and demonstrations. Participants learn nuts-and-bolts skills such
as how to build sturdy pens and grow fodder.
They also receive in-depth training in all 12 Cornerstones. Additionally, groups have requested training
in food processing, marketing, and human nutrition.
Spirituality – Our common belief lies
in the value of all life, a sense of connectedness to the Earth, and a shared
vision of the future. While Heifer
International has its roots in the Church of the Brethren, the mission embraces
people of all faiths, both as contributors and recipients.
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