From within our dairy community come stories that touch our lives and warm our hearts. This holiday season, we are pleased to share with you a few examples of the generosity and kindness of fellow dairymen and dairywomen who have unselfishly dedicated their time and talents to causes greater than themselves, their families and their farms.

At Horizon Organic, philanthropic giving focuses on sustainable agriculture, responsible resource use and promoting healthy communities. The company’s family of nearly 700 organic dairy farmers share the value of the importance of giving back to their local communities throughout the year.

It was December of 1987, the same year that Progressive Dairyman made its debut as a viable dairy publication (in March). My 82-year-old dad was gradually losing his strength as the effects of cancer were completing their merciless attacks upon his once-healthy body.

This last year, shortly after Christmas, we had our insurance agent, Jim, into our home. When he went into our living room, he saw our Christmas tree in the corner, all decorated. His response surprised all of us. “You have a Charlie Brown Christmas tree,” he said. I didn’t say much to his comment, but I realized he was right.

By understanding how Deerfield Farm, a Connecticut dairy farm, finds ways to add value to their supply chain, we can better understand how other farmers in the region may replicate such a methodology.

Here is a listing of the stories that made a difference in 2014.

Editor’s note: The following is an original short story by the author. Joe and Sue were sitting on the front step looking like their ice cream cones just got squashed. “Listen to that,” Joe said. “Did you hear them? They’re singing about me. My mom told me just this morning that I’m gettin’ nuttin’ for Christmas.