The roots of poverty and hunger in third world countries include a lack of resources-education and capital, and ineffective/insufficient medical care for people and their farm animals. For nearly 20 years, Dr. Ellis has made a significant impact by helping people with few resources, educational and/or financial and little medical care become empowered to better their quality of life.

Dr. Ellis has, on a volunteer basis, traveled to third world countries to educate farmers, peace corps workers and foreign veterinary students about sustainable agricultural practices and basic veterinary skills so that their people's animals remain healthy and productive. Much of this work, especially in the past 15 years, has been connected to Heifer International, an organization seeking to provide animals and sustainable agricultural skills to families so they will be able to lift themselves from lives of poverty and hunger.

While in the U.S. he has talked to groups as a state veterinarian for New York State, inspiring many to contribute an unknown but significant amount to Heifer International so that the organization can send animals to families in need in underdeveloped and developed nations.

Dr. Ellis deserves the Volvo for life Award because he uses his professional skills on a volunteer basis to help people help themselves and assures it is done in an environmentally conscious manner.

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