Award Winning Watercolor Artist Andy Mathis Donates Painting to Gift for Life Organization

Andy Mathis donates an original watercolor painting to Gift for Life. The painting is auctioned off during the anniversary gala and fundraiser, which was recently held in New York City.

Elberton, GA (PRWEB) June 5, 2006 -- Gift for Life (www.giftforlife.org) was founded in 1992 by a small group of gift industry professionals who felt compelled to respond to the tragic loss of talented friends and colleagues to AIDS. Since then, this group has grown in numbers and gained significant visibility within the gift industry, while raising nearly $4 million for life-saving AIDS research and education.

Gift for Life accomplishes its mission in cooperation with amfAR, The Foundation for Aids Research, is one of the world's leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to the support of AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and the advocacy of sound AIDS-related public policy. Since 1985, amfAR has invested nearly $250 million in its programs and has awarded grants to more than 2,000 research teams worldwide.

While exhibiting at Surtex, Andy attended and donated the painting at the Anniversary Gala. The gala coincided with the National Stationery Show and Surtex. (www.surtex.com)

"As a veterinarian, there are several local pet charities that are dear to my heart. It was great to support the Gift for Life organization and such a worthy cause while in New York City.", says Andy.

Mary Engelbreit and Ron Jedlinski were honored during the Gala for their achievements and contributions to the industry. Carson Kressley, of Bravo's Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, served as special guest host.

###