Heifer International Learning Center

Having just returned yesterday, it is abundantly clear that there are too few words in the English vocabulary, certainly mine, that can express how genuinely impressed that our 5 day experience has been. Our church youth group participated in the Alternate Break program and it was truly spectacular.
The Heifer mission, thoughtful preparation, and devoted volunteers created a truly one of a kind experience. We learned. We laughed. We worked. We sacrificed. Yes, some of us even cried. But, the tears were an expression of the effectiveness of the lessons learned. We didn’t cry for ourselves, but as a result of our eyes now wide open as to the lives of so many on this earth.
Far from a depressing experience, every participant left energetic, fulfilled, enlightened, and hoping to return someday. If even 1 «passes on the gift» then each of us has influenced this world for the better.
I won’t try to cover a single bit of the material that was imparted. No, I am simply not talented enough to begin to do it justice. But, each and every person can and will benefit from a visit to Heifer. On an extended stay, you will be challenged to be more than you thought that you were and to love more than you thought that you could love.
«The world in which you were born is just one model of reality.
Other cultures are not failed attempts at being you; they are unique manifestations of the human spirit.» –Wade Davis

I could not possibly top CJ’s review… but just want to echo what an amazing experience this is with the most friendly and caring staff. I went to my grandparent’s farm every summer, but I believe this is something that many kids never experience. For that reason alone (along with the good cause) this should be on every parent’s list for their kids to experience. Thank you Heifer Farm!

Overlook Farm is just AMAZING in so many ways! I went this past weekend and had a blast! It was all very fun.
First of all when you get there you are greeted by someone before parking. Don’t worry parking is free! They give you a map of the farm and ask if you have any questions after they let you know whats going on for that day. During this visit they only asked for can goods as a donation! Way more than fair if you ask me.
We had gone to the barn first. It was just rebuilt a few years ago. The old one had burnt down. Not sure from what. But with peoples help and donations they where able to build a brand new barn! It was built well and looks amazing. (I will post pictures soon!) This gives the animals some cover and to feed! To its win/​win if you ask me.
While in the barn you will see pigs, goats, cows, chickens and ducks! They also had a highlander too. You can pet them and get up close and personal with them! They seem to like to be pet. It’s great for the kids!
Next we had went to visit the global village! This is an eye opener if you have never been before. You get to see what a house may look like from each country. This includes Mexico, India, Africa, and the good ol’ USA! They have signs and volunteers at a few of the house giving you a ton of information. Letting you know what heifer will donate to them and how they live. This part of the farm lets you know just how well you have it! Its very well put together to be both educational and entertaining.
At the end of the day we did the hay ride! Again it was free. They give you a ride around the global village. So if its to muddy or you just don’t feel like walking it then by all means! Hope aboard and see it from the hay ride! Very informational and they do make stops. So have your camera ready if you like to take pictures.
The gift shop is also pretty good. Its all fair trade items. Fair prices and they let you shop with out being in your way. Something I enjoy when I shop! But again they are there for you if you have any questions. Another big plus in my book.
They also have a information center! Here you can see whats going on for the day and even make a donation here if you would like. We had given some canned goods and we also donate money every year during the Christmas season. They don’t make you feel that you have too also. We do it because its helping others. So if you wanna help world hunger then this is the charity for you! We enjoy giving to them. We will continue doing so as long as we can every year. (Also note you can do this VIA their website as well)
We had also went to see their bake sale. They give out free hot cocoa and hot cider. All natural and made by them. Cheap and yet great quality! $ 5.00 got us a ton of cookies!
So over all I think the whole family would have fun here. It teaches them some good knowledge but still have fun! Through out the farm there are games and crafts the kids can do as well. So for a family outing I think it would be perfect! So if you got any free time and they have some events going on I would HIGHLY recommend going. Heifer does some GREAT work! Help them out if you are able too.
Perfect ⁵⁄₅! This is what a charity should be! Perfect example. Enough said! :)

We went to their annual pancake breakfast this morning and then took a self-​guided tour of the working farm and the several replica houses in its Global Village. Even in muddy March, this place was fabulous, and the staff was very friendly and informative! It’s a Heifer International site (with a cool gift shop), but they’re not in your face about fundraising for their cause. I highly recommend this place to anyone who appreciates the idea of global food sustainability, wants to learn more about how other countries grow/​raise food, likes beautiful vistas (it’s called Overlook for a reason), and appreciates animals (there are TONS of adorable baby pygmy goats… but also water buffalo, camels, etc.).