What do you tell your friends and family when they ask
what gifts you want for the holidays?

This year, give them an answer they won't expect. Tell them you want a Heifer gift. Then, after you tell them "No, I don't want a cow," send them to your personal Heifer Giving Registry where they can give a gift from Heifer in your name. Here's how the Giving Registry works:

1. Visit the Heifer Web site to set up your Giving Registry: http://www.Heifer.org/
2. Make your registry list. Choose gifts from the Heifer gift catalog for your friends to give in your name.
3. Send your friends an e-card from the Heifer Web site to direct them to your online registry. Tell them how they'll be helping a family in need, while also making your holiday brighter.
4. Heifer will give the gifts in your name to a family in need.
5. As with all Heifer gifts, the families who receive your gift will pass it on to others in their community, creating a cycle of giving.

What you get (instead of that sweater): The knowledge that a gift in your name is truly helping someone in need. Freedom from all of those items you don't really want or need. No gift returns, boxes, and clothes two sizes too big.

What you'll be giving your friends and family: Less stress over what they should buy for you. Freedom from the shopping crowds. More time to focus on celebrating the holiday instead of shopping. The knowledge that they, too, are giving a Heifer gift and helping those less fortunate this season.

Help your loved ones do something meaningful with their time and money this year: Instead of making a holiday wish list, direct your friends and family to your online Heifer Giving Registry . You'll be giving, and getting back, so much more.