Long celebrated for its “pass on the gift” philosophy and commitment to promoting sustainable global solutions, Global Impact member charity Heifer International chose to practice what they preach when designing and constructing their new world headquarters in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Tim Hursley/Heifer International

Perhaps the most important factor in planning each of the design elements was for Heifer to be able to “walk the talk,” not only promoting sustainability in the countries where they serve, but also in their own backyard.

“One thing that Heifer understands is that if we are going to have a lasting impact on world hunger, everything we do must be sustainable,” said Jo Luck, Heifer’s president and CEO.

“Conceiving our new office building, we strove to live up to the aspirations of Heifer’s own mission of ending hunger and saving the earth.”

Dedicated on March 16, 2006 to much fanfare, including keynote speeches from former President William J. Clinton and noted author/global poverty expert Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, the Heifer International Center (the Center) has been praised as a model for institutions also wishing to incorporate environmental responsibility into their mission.

The Center is a “green” building, specially designed to conserve energy, curb pollution and protect natural resources without sacrificing the basic, functional elements of an office environment. It was constructed on an abandoned railroad yard using recycled and renewable materials, including recycled steel and carpet; bathrooms with recycled tiles and countertops; and bamboo flooring.

Additionally, the building was oriented to maximize sun exposure, saving electricity by harvesting natural light for every work station. Water collected from the roof is used to heat the building and flush toilets, and a designated wetland area controls, stores and reuses surface groundwater.
The complex also features educational facilities where the public may learn about Heifer’s efforts to end hunger and poverty worldwide, and serves as a convergence point for the international relief and development community to come together and share best practices.

“If we’re going to have a lasting impact on ending world hunger,” Luck said, “then everything we do must renew the earth and not deplete it.”