A New Standard for the You Matter Card: Inspired by Our Work with Thrive!
Recently, I had the opportunity to work with Open Door Group – Thrive!, creating a customized edition of the You Matter Card (YMC) that speaks directly to their community. In the process, I developed a new design that proved so effective I’ve decided to make it the standard YMC template going forward.
This updated design strikes a balance between flexibility and consistency: any organization can tailor the listings to their community while still benefiting from a familiar, user-friendly structure.
How the Card Is Organized
The Front: Community Resources
The front of the card provides quick access to vital categories like Crisis Support, Food Resources, and Leisure & Wellness. Each section is connected to a QR code, linking directly to an online hub of listings.
This approach ensures that organizations can include as many resources as they need without overcrowding the card. And because the listings are web-based, updates can be made in real time—no need to reprint cards when something changes.
The Back: Emergency & 24/7 Help
The back is designed for urgent access, with:
- Emergency contacts including 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline), 310-6789 (Mental Health Support), and 9-1-1.
- 211, a multilingual 24/7 service for housing, food, and all types of community resources.
- Information on free WiFi and public computer access at libraries and community centres across Vancouver.
This ensures the card serves both immediate crisis needs and ongoing resource connections.
Why This Design Works
- Customizable: Any organization can create a version that reflects their community’s unique needs.
- Scalable: Add as many listings as needed, while keeping the card clear and readable.
- Current: QR codes keep resources up-to-date without constant reprinting.
- Practical: Pocket-sized, discreet, and easy to carry.
Looking Ahead
The Thrive! edition showed me what’s possible when the card is truly customized for a community. By adopting this design as the new YMC standard, I hope to make it easier for other groups—large or small—to create versions that empower their members with the resources and support they need.
Because no matter the community, the message remains the same: You Matter.