Hello by Hand
Formerly "Cards for Seniors"
the story
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 across Austin to work together and create handmade cards for seniors living in local care facilities. We knew that creative social outlets would be the perfect remedy to restore a sense of social connection and togetherness following the isolation of the economic shutdown.
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. Today, Hello by Hand (formerly "Cards for Seniors") partners with facilities across Central Texas and accept handmade cards year-round from volunteers across the nation.
Bring Hello by Hand to Your Team
A meaningful team-building activity for companies, schools, and groups where your team makes cards that we hand-deliver to seniors in longterm care. We provide all needed support with step-by-step instructions, an onsite facilitator, volunteer hours documentation, and an impact report.
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.
Donate to the Cause
Help us deliver more joy by hand! Your donation ensures we have plenty of card-making supplies, envelopes, fuel for delivery routes, storage facilities, and postage for shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hello by Hand the same as cards for Seniors?
Yes. Cards for Seniors has been renamed Hello by Hand. It's still a program of Artly World, a 501c3 nonprofit, and the same team still runs it.
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.
Do you offer volunteer opportunities for corporate teams and groups?
Yes, we have several options of volunteer and team-building opportunities for corporate groups. Learn more and request a date at this link.
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, fuel, and shipping and to fund in-person art-making experiences for low-income, disabled seniors in Austin area through our Joy for Seniors 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 Joy for Seniors arts and wellness programs. Learn more about these arts and wellness programs 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 Hello by Hand and to run in-person arts programs for low-income, disabled seniors in the Austin area through our Joy for Seniors 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.