Snellville Resident Amy Yu, 11, Donates Art Work for a Cause

Through tin soldiers, angels and smiling snowmen, eight children from metro Atlanta are sharing their creativity for a good cause: the 2012 Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Holiday Card Program.

Each of the children’s artwork comprises one of eight Christmas, Hanukah or winter-themed greetings cards that will raise money for the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

Amy Yu, 11, of Snellville, donated her holiday artwork titled “Caroling Angel” for the cause. Her artwork was among eight pieces selected for inclusion in the program.

Amy Yu loves to see the smiling faces of the doctors and nurses at Children’s, which she visits regularly for therapy for an autism spectrum disorder. The 11-year-old excels at social studies in school and enjoys playing the piano and violin, as well as bicycling and reading.

Her card can be seen and purchased here. 

Since the cards debuted more than 20 years ago, purchases have raised more than $1.2 million. 

In addition to the child artists, popular Georgia artist Steve Penley donated original artwork featuring ice skaters in a picturesque winter scene. A native of Athens and Macon, Penley’s unique style of bold color, strong brushy strokes and vivid imagery have made him one of America’s most popular artists.

The 2012 Holiday Card Program also features Christmas cards, a Hanukah card, and holiday season cards. The seven other youthful minds behind this year’s creations hail from metro areas including Alpharetta, Duluth, Lawrenceville, Marietta and Newnan.

Proceeds from the 2012 Holiday Card program will help fund the family support team at the Aflac Cancer Center. This team of highly trained specialists work together to provide each patient with the developmental, psychological, educational and emotional support they need throughout their journey with cancer or blood disorders.

Because family is a crucial element of recovery, family support team members also assist the child’s family, ensuring that parents and siblings have access to the support they need.

The family support team includes child life specialists, social workers, school teachers, chaplains, music therapists and psychologists. Because the services of the family support team are not reimbursed by insurance, the Aflac Cancer Center relies on charitable contributions to provide these crucial services to patients and their families.

Each $12 card pack includes 20 cards and 21 envelopes, unless otherwise noted. Matching address labels are available for an additional $5 donation. Customizable e-cards featuring Holiday Card Program artwork are also available for a minimum donation of $5.

To read about the artists, request a catalog or to place an order, visit their website or call 404-785-7380. The cards will be available through Dec. 31 and can be found at select retail locations and the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta gift shops.