Wishing everyone a Happy New Year :)

Although 2009 has not been a smooth year for many... and despite the economy... it was amazing for me to see my friends and people around me who have been affected by the economy, how they haven't lose sight of their ability to keep dreaming, be inspired, and simply be grateful for what they do already have. It's from these people that my inspiration continues.

"Art for a Good Cause" was created by my artist friend Lea Yang (http://www.portfoliol.com) and I about a year ago where we each would choose an organization to donate a portion of our proceeds from the sales of our artworks we'd sell. I was able to raise $50, a portion from the sales of my photography, in which I will donate to "Atlantic Street Center" (http://www.atlanticstreet.org). Their effort focuses on helping children and their families mainly of color and low-income from Seattle's central and southeast neighborhoods. Services are free to participants which is why donations are important. I chose this organization to donate to because it's important for me to see all children get as much adult attention and support they can get to push to see their skills and talents. Children's actions are true and honest. Their dreams and thoughts are genuine. However, when they're put in conditions that pushes them to grown in another direction, it's hard to keep that genunity. My volunteer experience to help teach at-risk children in the Rainier neighborhood during the first half of the year has allowed me to see this and has made me want to help them whenever I can.

So to those who have purchased my photography last year, you may not know it at the time, but on behalf of "Art for a Good Cause", we thank you as you have all contributed in donations. Thank you again.

And may 2010 be a good year for all. *^_^* Inspire.....

-Nora