January 25, 2005

Dear Colleagues, Industry Partners and Interested Members of the Public,

Over the past three weeks, we have all witnessed the massive destruction the South Asia tsunami has left in its wake. The loss of life is staggering.

As veterinarians, we fear that the long-term effects of this tragedy will be worse. As a profession, we understand that the initial shock of this tragedy could be followed by massive public health crises and the realization that vital agricultural resources have been lost.

Many of you have asked, "How can I help?"

The American Veterinary Medical Association recognizes that an event so dramatically affecting mankind demands a response of equal magnitude.

With the goal of helping victims rebuild their lives and farms over the long term, the AVMA has pledged $500,000 to Heifer International in the form of a challenge grant, to encourage our members, our industry partners, and members of the public to contribute to this effort. The AVMA will match donations until the grand total reaches $1 million. As a down payment and a sign of our faith in your generosity, AVMA is giving Heifer International $100,000 to kick off this program.

For every dollar raised toward our goal, AVMA will match it ... dollar for dollar.

Established over 60 years ago and already operating in the affected areas, Heifer International is monitoring the situation to determine when animals can be reintroduced into these areas. When appropriate, Heifer International will match agricultural livestock to the local geography and culture, and teach the recipients how to properly raise and care for the animals. As the animals reproduce, their offspring can be used to perpetuate a family's herd or to begin a new herd for another struggling family. Thus your gift turns into many, as more lives are transformed through Heifer's cornerstone of "Passing on the Gift."

Please make a generous, tax-deductible donation to the AVMA/HPI project. Checks should be made payable to Heifer International. In order to receive matching dollars, you must include "AVMA" in the memo section of your check or reference AVMA when you call in your donation. Mail your check today, along with the form attached to this letter or on the AVMA web site, to Heifer International, P.O. Box 8058, Little Rock, AR 72203. Or you may call 1-888-548-6437 Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm central time.

Sincerely,

Bonnie V. Beaver, D.V.M.
AVMA President