One doesn’t need a reminder that times are tougher than ever, but it is worth repeating that being an agent of goodwill has never been easier. Do a good deed for an impoverished family (and your conscience): sponsor a healthy sheep (or a heifer, goat, or water buffalo, for that matter) like this one through Heifer International. As the global champion of anti-hunger advocacy, the nonprofit organization coordinates this unique empowerment program, which allows struggling foreign communities to reap the myriad benefits (wool for clothing, meat for food, trade for commerce) inherent to these resilient animals.

The gift of a sheep is $120 and a share of a sheep is $10 from Heifer International.

Amanda Rae Busch

Formerly senior editor of Berkshire Living magazine and a culture contributor since 2008, Amanda Rae Busch now lives in Aspen, Colorado, where she is a contributing editor to Aspen Sojourner, food columnist at the Aspen Times Weekly, and a frequent contributor to Aspen Luxury Life, Edible Aspen, Aspen Peak, Denver's 5280 Magazine blog, and more. Though she covers all food, Colorado artisanal cheese is her favorite topic. Follow her: @amandaraewashere