Caring & Sharing within Project Communities in Tibet
In May 2008, Jilin and Jiumai Village in Zhanang County were very excited about Heifer's idea of establishing Self-help groups even before the start of Heifer projects in the county. When Heifer staff came, the villagers had already named their Self-Help Groups and worked out detailed plans on how to improve their community proactively. In June 2008, six Self-Help Groups had been established in the two villages including Singing Group, Zhaxi Group, Linka Group, Guozhuang Group, Business Group and Knitting Group, each of which represents the distinguishing feature of certain group.
Since the establishment of Self-Help Groups, the two villages have implemented a variety of group activities. The most heart-warming outcome of this project is the mutual care fostered among our project families. During the study and practice on scientific development in Zhanang County, three Self-help groups in Jiumai Village took turns to voluntarily help construct the house for a needy household-Bazhu. Furthermore, they lent RMB1,000 from the Self-help Fund to purchase timber for Bazhu's new house. Bazhu is a well- known needy household in Jiumai Village because he has many family members but limited labor. During the harvest seasons, most villagers lent him a helpful hand spontaneously because Bazhu's crops could not be harvested in time due to the lack of labor force. Villagers have always provided the assistance for Bazhu since they noticed his difficulties.
Noticing the progress of the construction, Bazhu said with excitement, "Thanks to the help of Self-Help Groups, I can soon live in a safe and comfortable house." He was determined to shake off poverty with his own hands and lead a happy life.
