December, 2008 (CHAPEL HILL, NC) — To show her support for The Arc of Orange County’s mission, Chapel Hill artist Kimberly Alvis recently donated a unique Christmas tree “ornament” to the Festival of Trees, The Arc’s December fundraising event held at University Mall in Chapel Hill.

Alvis’ ornament is actually an original 5”x7” oil painting that she contributed to hang on the tree sponsored by Chapel Hill Magazine owners Ellen and Bill Shannon. The tree’s theme is “local artist.”

Entitled “The Gold Ribbon,” Alvis’ small painting features red roses in a green teapot with a gold ribbon looped around it.

Many local businesses donated decorated trees for the Festival. The trees are auctioned off to raise money for The Arc of Orange County. The Arc works with and for people who have or are at risk for having developmental disabilities.

The Festival of Trees Preview Party was held December 4 and including entertainment and a silent auction. The display remains in University Mall through December 8.

Kimberly Alvis, an award-winning artist represented in the Triangle by Somerhill Gallery, has contributed her artwork to many worthy causes, including the annual Works of Heart auction in Raleigh that benefits the Carolina AIDS Alliance and a fundraiser for the Triangle Day School in Durham.

“I enjoy opportunities to help people through my art,” Alvis said. “I love painting and people appreciate being helped. It’s a win-win situation.”

For more information on the artist, visit http://www.alvisart.com.

For more information on The Arc of Orange County and the Festival of Trees, visit http://www.arcoforange.org.

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