The holiday season is just around the corner, and sending greeting cards can be a lengthy process.

But the Ames-ISU YWCA, Worldly Goods, 223 Main St., and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) are trying to make that job easier and raise money at the same time with UNICEF greeting cards.

Judy Dolphin, executive director of YWCA, said UNICEF greeting cards have been available on campus since the 1950s when production of the cards began.

“We usually sell about $3,000 worth of the cards,” Dolphin said.

Dolphin said the revenue from four UNICEF cards can help immunize 16 children against diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus.

“That is only one example,” Dolphin said. “UNICEF is there to promote the health and welfare of children all over the world. UNICEF is quite large and works in all areas, from prenatal care to clean water.”

The cards also are sold at Worldly Goods.

“It’s for a good cause — that’s why our store exists,” said Tammi Martin, store manager. “Also, they are great cards.”

There are three main reasons to buy UNICEF cards, according to a press release. UNICEF helps educate mothers so they can better care for their children. It also supports community-based projects that provide people with education and training to develop skills that will benefit their families and their communities.

Also, UNICEF works with governments in developing countries to eliminate disease, malnutrition and poverty from the lives of children and their families.

Dolphin said there are 15 basic card designs with messages fit for any tradition: “Seasons Greetings,” “Peace on Earth” and “Peace, Joy and Friendship.” There also is one set of religious cards, she said.

The greeting cards are sold in packages of 10, 20 or 30, starting at $9 per package.

“There is no tax, and 100 percent of the money goes to UNICEF,” Dolphin said.

These cards are bought, sold and sent all over the world, she said.

“Some of the cards were designed by children — that makes them appealing to young people,” Dolphin said. “There is a real message of peace and empowerment.”