PITTSBURGH, Nov. 2, 2006—Due to their overwhelming popularity last year, the American Red Cross Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter is once again selling holiday greeting cards to the public as a fundraiser for the organization.
The cards, created by local artists, writers and photographers for the Red Cross, feature meaningful verses and themes in line with the Red Cross mission and philosophies. The cards challenge the reader to celebrate simple pleasures and to remember others less fortunate this holiday season. (The actual cards can be viewed at the chapter’s Web site: www.swpa.redcross.org.)
The card design was recognized last year with six local "Addy’s" from the Advertising Federation, including Best of Show for Concept and Design. The "Addy’s" are prestigious awards given for creativity within the advertising industry.
All profits generated from the sale of the cards will support the Southwestern Pennsylvania Red Cross chapter, which helps local families in Allegheny, Fayette, Greene and Washington counties all year long.
"The cards were created long before hurricanes struck the Gulf States last year," said local Red Cross spokesperson Jill Berardi. "Yet the messages on these cards have a real connection with what America may be feeling more than a year after such disasters. We have received orders from all over the country for them."
Four different designs of the 5"x7" cards come in a packet of 20 (with matching envelopes) and retail for $12 a packet. Inventory is limited, so orders will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
To order, visit www.swpa.redcross.org to download the order form – or call the Red Cross at 412-263-3162. (See messaging for cards below)
Card #1 - a tree of wonder
You ask, where are the ornaments? The twinkling lights? The presents? Never mind all that, we say. Instead, let's marvel at something much deeper. Like living. Breathing. And celebrating the miracle of a Thai boy who was saved by a palm tree during the Asian tsunami.
Inside message:
May the spirit of the season move you to new heights. And inspire you to look up, find hope in a tree. And do more good in the world.
Card #2 - a light of hope
During the holidays, it's easy to take lights for granted. They're everywhere. Twinkle lights. Icicle lights. Globe lights. Mini lights. But nothing burns more brightly than a basic 40-watt bulb when you've been without electricity for hours. When you've lived through the darkness, fear and uncertainty of a natural disaster.
Inside message:
May the spirit of the season move you to illuminate someone's world. With the gift of compassion. With a light that never goes out.
Card #3 - a carol of joy
There is a carol that transcends the holidays. One that is often heard after a screaming tornado, a pounding flood, or a raging fire. After the havoc, and the world is still, this carol softly fills the air. It's the sweet warble of a songbird. With a reassuring reminder that life will go on.
Inside message:
May the spirit of the season move you to see the promise after every storm. And to rejoice in the music that unites us all.
Card #4 - a wreath of grace
It's not balsam fir, or holly, or boxwood. It's won't adorn a single front door with holiday cheer. Nevertheless, it has decorated many lives. In immeasurable ways. With wreaths like this one, thousands of people each year are rescued from life-threatening emergencies. Making it a beautiful tradition, indeed.
Inside message:
May the spirit of the season move you to look beyond your blessings. And find joy in reaching out to those who struggle to keep afloat.
