Updates from VPL, Rainbow Refugee, and more as the You Matter Card expands
The past month has brought some important conversations about where the You Matter Card can be hosted and how it can continue to grow. Each organization we connect with has its own way of supporting community members, and I’m grateful for the time and thought leaders are giving to this project.
Vancouver Public Library (Mount Pleasant Branch)
Earlier this summer, I met with Alexis Greenwood, Branch Head at the Mount Pleasant branch of the Vancouver Public Library (VPL). She recently followed up after checking with her manager. VPL has a clear policy of creating their own handouts, so the You Matter Card won’t be something library staff officially distribute.
That said, Alexis offered a helpful path forward: the card can be placed on the community resource shelf in the lobby of the Mount Pleasant Community Centre, where the library is located. This ensures it remains visible and accessible to the public.
Rainbow Refugee
I also had my first Zoom conversation with Shivani from Rainbow Refugee. While we haven’t yet sat down with her team to explore their vision for the card, it was a positive first step. Rainbow Refugee is currently navigating the loss of a team member and adjusting to internal changes. Understandably, Shivani will reconnect when the timing is right for a fuller discussion.
I appreciate her openness in making time for this initial meeting during a challenging period, and I look forward to collaborating further when the opportunity arises.
Behind the Scenes: Directory Management
Another area of progress has been on the technical side. After working with a developer to build a custom directory, I ran into challenges creating a portal that partner organizations could easily use to manage their own listings. To solve this, I shifted to a professional directory system that includes a ready-to-use client portal.
To make things even smoother, I’ve reached out to 211 to explore whether their database could serve as the backbone. Since 211 already maintains the most comprehensive directory of resources in Canada, this could mean that partners wouldn’t need to manage the listings themselves — instead, the You Matter Card could tap into 211’s always up-to-date system. This would make things more sustainable and reliable for everyone involved.
Continuing Momentum
The You Matter Card is already being hosted at the CMHA Peer Navigator Program in Mount Pleasant, and custom versions are in development with Open Door Group Thrive! Other conversations are also underway with BC Housing and additional partners.
Every step matters. Not every partnership looks the same, and that’s okay — the strength of the project lies in its flexibility. At its heart, the You Matter Card is about one simple goal: ensuring people have a quick, free resource they can carry in a wallet or pocket and turn to in a moment of need.