The Berkeley-based local UNA Center historically has enjoyed particularly good sales of UNICEF fair trade items, designed by artisans from around the world, at holiday time. Over its 42-year history, the Berkeley center has raised more than $2 million through sales of the items for the United Nations children's fund.

But the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, which raises money for the world children's organization, has turned over production and marketing of its products to greeting card giant Hallmark, which can offer better distribution and returns than the relatively small collection of United Nations Association chapters in the United States. Cards will be marketed at Hallmark stores as well as large retailers such as Pier One Imports and IKEA.

The Berkeley center is sold out of holiday cards, and its remaining stock of notecards, stationery and the like, all left over from past years, will be available at 50 percent off until Saturday, when sales officially end.

"People who come in every year can't get over it," said Mary Lee Trampleasure, a longtime volunteer and past director at the center. "They're upset and disappointed."

The U.S. Fund for UNICEF announced the partnership with Hallmark in November 2005, citing the opportunity "to greatly increase UNICEF card sales, and extend outreach and appeal of the brand amongst a broader

"More revenue means more young lives saved," said Charles Lyons, president of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. "It's that simple, because we are very efficient at putting funds to work helping children who need it most."

Cards went on sale at Hallmark stores in June.

The Berkeley chapter will try to make the most of the situation, marking the final day of sales by holding a party with music and food to thank everyone who has supported the location over the years.

In the past, the UNA/UNICEF Center has been the primary local place to buy UNICEF cards, with proceeds supporting U.N. programs that help children around the world.

The center, which attracts volunteers from Alameda and Contra Costa counties, will remain in its 300-square-foot space at 1403B Addison St., Berkeley, adjoining the parking lot of the University Avenue Andronico's grocery store. But its operations may change somewhat, depending on what the association's board decides this weekend.

Trampleasure, who has been active with the chapter since 1979, said it will still function as an office, community center and educational resource, offering a library of U.N.-related books and materials.

But the extent of its open hours and retail operations, which include selling flags, books, educational materials and children's games, may depend on finding someone who can serve in a volunteer capacity as center director.

"We'll probably be open on a more limited basis," said Trampleasure, a Berkeley resident.

The center was established Aug. 1, 1964, at a space in what was then the Co-op Market on Shattuck Avenue. It later moved to a space on Delaware Street and Shattuck until settling at its current home, which it subleases from the Gray Panthers chapter.

Anyone interested in the director position can contact chapter President Herb Behrstock by e-mail at Herb@behrstock.com. Community ideas and participation are welcome. The center can be reached at (510) 849-1752.

Chris Treadway can be reached at (510) 262-2784.