For Erin Wilhelm-Hilkey, a film production manager, and Eli Tate, an Air Force pilot, their upcoming marriage was a chance to help others begin their lives anew as they began their own.

When the excess and planning of a wedding became overwhelming, the couple from Chapel Hill, N.C., decided to register at Heifer International to help them keep perspective. The 63yearold organization provides livestock and agricultural training to families in communities struggling with hunger and poverty.

"Our wedding celebration was the perfect time to contribute to Heifer and to spread their message of hope," said Wilhelm-Hilkey.

Through Heifer's gift registry, a couple can create a home page displaying their photo and statement about why they support Heifer. Gifts on the registry may include chickens, sheep, dairy cows, honeybees and other foodand income-producing animals.

"We chose Heifer because we truly believe that they are building communities that will stabilize developing regions and will change the world," said Wilhelm-Hilkey.

Friends and family of the couple can read about what their gift will provide. Through the registry, couples are able to see who has contributed, allowing them to easily keep track of gifts and thank people accordingly.

Although they won't have wedding china to pass on to their grandchildren, the couple say their hope is that through small actions like this one, they will be able to pass on a better world to future generations.

"Instead of (us)receiving plates and stemware, there will be communities that will develop pride, education, hope, self-reliance and a strong sense of their own accomplishments," said the bride.

For more information, call (800)696-1918 or visit www.heifer.org.

This story is provided by NewsUSA.