Buttercup Farms' Mongolia connection began in an unexpected way, but it typifies the benefits that accrue to both stateside volunteers and their international colleagues. A U.S. Peace Corps vollunteer familiar with the farm met a Mongolian woman whose son was attending Diablo Valley College, which is amazingly near the farm. Thus began a rewarding relationship with Shijir Jargalsaikhan. He lived in the yurt on the farm while attending classes and then spent summers and weekends working at the Mercantile. His interaction with customers greatly improved his English, and, in turn, he introduced John and another Mercantile volunteer to his rich culture when then joined him on a trip home.