The video is explicit, the message is simple: You can transform lives in one of the poorest districts of India by donating a goat.
A life-changing experience in India inspired volunteer Debbie Glasband to launch a program to provide an alternative source of income for tribal people: Goats.
During her extended stay in eastern India, Glasband worked with villagers in Koraput – the second poorest village in India. She was saddened to learn that these indigenous people are often taken advantage of by local officials and landowners, due to their status at the bottom of the caste system – and she decided to do something extraordinary to help.
Changing lives with … goats
Glasband learned that a goatery program could transform lives – and by working with local NGOs, she got “I Want A Goat” off the ground. The concept is relatively simple: You can give a goat for just $20.
For tribal people who are landless, raising goats is a great alternative source of income. Families who breed goats can earn a good profit selling the kids in the local market. The extra income provides a safety net for families that can be used for things like medicine, food during lean periods and farm equipment.
Controversial video?
There are bound to be people who are offended by the video (which parodies SNL’s Andy Samberg’s explicit “I’m On A Boat”) or who think that the video is somehow exploiting villagers.
However, the video actually stars Puki and Nua Kerenga villagers, who were displaced by hydroelectric dams and mining projects.
This video attempts to show that these are real people, with senses of humor, talent and real potential to improve their lives with the proper support. I personally admire their simplicity, love of nature and dignity under some of the most crushing circumstances. This isn’t just about raising money for poor people, this is about providing opportunities they cannot access due to discrimination.
How you can help
To learn more about how you can help, please visit I Want A Goat.
About Rhishja Cota-Larson
As consumers in the developed world are constantly inundated with advertising, the rise of alternative forms has drawn a disproportionate response. I think that this video is a smart method to try to break the mind-numbing hum of standard ads and reach people (albeit momentarily) to try and drive action; drop $20 bucks on a goat for a poor community.
Sorry, this is the most stupid idea. I will never send money to causes like this one.
First of all, I had to turn the obnoxious music down. Second, I would never contribute money to allow an animal that, most probably, would end up on someones dinner plate.
Both the music and the idea are offensive.
This is amazing, I laughed so hard! Great project, will definitely donate. Also, why are your goats so much less expensive than World Vision’s goats?