Cards for Seniors
the Story
A Serendipitous Opportunity
Never could we have anticipated the impacts this community project would have on so many lives.
After the pandemic we initiated a small community project for kids and families at different locations across Austin to work together and create handmade cards for seniors living in local care facilities. Across the communities where we worked, people were hungry for companionship and meaningful human connection. As an arts organization, we knew that creative social outlets would be the perfect remedy to restore a sense of social well-being and togetherness.
As we collected and hand-delivered cards to seniors across the city, we were overwhelmed by both the enthusiastic outpouring of handmade cards as well as the emotional responses from seniors who received the handwritten messages. Witnessing these impacts firsthand, we felt an obligation to expand the project into a longterm initiative, “Cards for Seniors.” Today we partner with facilities across Central Texas and accept handmade cards by mail year-round from volunteers across the nation to be able to serve more seniors.
Want to Make Cards?
The success of this program is dependent on the generosity of caring volunteers like you who donate their time to craft handmade cards that bring joy and feelings of hope and companionship to the lives of seniors in need.
Want to Request Cards?
We partner with senior care facilities across Central Texas who would like to provide their residents with special messages of joy and hope, handwritten by members of the community in Austin and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make cards?
You can make cards in person at one of our community cardmaking sessions in Austin, or you can make cards from home and mail them to us. Find out how you can make cards here.
How can I request cards?
We partner with longterm senior care and assisted living facilities, including nursing homes, retirement centers, skilled nursing wings, in the Central Texas area. Eligible care facilities can request cards at this link.
Can I make a donation with the cards?
Yes, we accept donations to cover costs for supplies and shipping for Cards for Seniors and to fund in-person art-making experiences for low-income, disabled seniors in Austin area through our Senior Smiles program. You can donate directly on our website here or include a check addressed to “Artly World” with your cards.
How else can I contribute?
Beyond making cards, you can send a donation to help cover costs associated with the program. And if you’re in the Austin area, you can contribute by participating as an in-person volunteer for our Senior Smiles program. Learn more about Senior Smiles here.
Is this a charitable effort?
Yes, this project is produced by Artly World, a 501c3 nonprofit that’s based in Austin, TX. We depend on individual contributions and donations to cover backend costs for Cards for Seniors and to run in-person arts programs for low-income, disabled seniors in the Austin area through out Senior Smiles program.
Can I send gifts?
At the moment, we can only accept handmade cards via mail. But if you’d like to do more, consider including a donation to help cover the costs of the program and/or sign up to volunteer for our in-person programs serving seniors in the Austin area.
Can I form a community cohort to make cards?
Absolutely! Get your family, friends, neighbors, and loved ones together to make as many cards as you like. Find out more about making cards here.
Do you offer volunteer opportunities for corporate teams and groups?
Yes, we have several options of volunteer and team-building opportunities for corporate groups.