New Definition

Andrew: “Hmmmm I don’t know what that is Ashley. Adam do you know?”

Adam: “I think I’ve heard of it before, but I’m not really sure. Angie?”

Angie: “Yeah...don’t know. Just GOOGLE it!”

“Google it.” That’s a phrase that most of us have used at least once! According to Merriam-Webster it means:

Google (v) (googled googling)- to use the Google search engine to obtain information about (as a person) on the World Wide Web.

We’re not sure how Google became a verb, BUT we have a verb of our own; ArrowStream or Stream.

Thankfully there have been 50+ groups who have held a Cardz for Kidz! event. This ranges from world renowned universities to small community groups. One reason folks like to participate is that, EVERY CARD COUNTS. So whether it’s a HUGE event that produces 300+ cards (thanks CervantesKids!) to a small ‘Girls Night in Party’ that produces 21 (yup we still remember Ms Lavers!), we appreciate all cards. Also, we’ve learned that people have heard about Cardz for Kidz! in all different types of ways. This has ranged hearing about us in class (looking forward to seeing those cards USG) to seeing a sign we posted in a Starbucks (still remember the email from Harley Davidson!).  We definitely understand that groups get busy at different times. Also, there are some folks who simply prefer to make cards around special holidays.

But one thing that’s clear is that ArrowStream is the only group who’s ArrowStreamed or Streamed it.

Arrowstream (v)- (Streamed, Streaming). Independently host Cardz for Kidz! events without any member of the organization checking in to see if they are still interested and/or requesting cards for a special event.

Sorry we’re number guys so we gotta show some stats! 

In total, as of March 28, 2014 we’ve received cards from 101 different events. Among those, only 28% of participants held an event the following quarter. To narrow it down even more, ArrowStream is the ONLY group who’s held an event 4 quarters in a row!!! Shocking right? It’s clear everyone enjoys the excuse to use glitter glue while uplifting spirits, but based on time constraints they’re often unable to host another event.

What’s even more surprising is that every quarter they reach out to update us that they had an event! No need for us to remind or request any cards. 

So yes...we haven’t forgotten:

• No, they’re not our #1 producer of cards (just 11 cards away from being a Gold level contributor).
• No, they have not cracked the overall Top 10…yet.

But YES. They have consistently uplifted spirits without us requesting. Currently at four quarters and that can still increase!

Now we understand there are time constraints, but it would be AMAZING if more groups would create a new definition and ArrowStream/Stream it! 

And sorry guys, but now we’re spoiled and expecting it to continue! :)

Top 10 cards from Q1 2014

#upliftingspirits #newdefinition

To see more pictures and stories please check out our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter , visit our Google+ page, or visit our LinkedIn page! Website coming soon, www.cardzforkidz.org!

Who You're Telling

Here’s a brief story about a “special” taxi ride:

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One day back in April 2013, I left work and tried to catch a cab to the Bulls game.  As many of you know, it can be tough finding a cab downtown, during rush hour.   After about 10-15 minutes a cab pulls up, but by this time there was also a young lady waiting for a cab as well.  Trying to be a nice guy, I told her that she can have the cab and that I’ll just catch the next one.  She was so appreciative of the gesture that she offered to share the cab.   It turns out that she was going to the Bulls game as well! Because of her kindness, I told her that I would expense the cab ride.

During the ride, we chatted about our jobs and what we enjoyed doing in our free time.  As I began to talk about my interest and position with Cardz for Kidz!  she mentioned that her company, Roundarch Isobar, would love to participate.  That quarter they held a simultaneous event with their Chicago, Boston and New York offices.

Now here’s the most interesting part. In Q4 2013, participants produced a total of 1,390 cards.  At the end of the quarter it turned out that Roundarch produced 4 of the overall Top 10 cards.  It’s wild to think that if I didn’t mention the organization, there would have been 164 children who wouldn’t have received a card to brighten their day.  A perfect mix of quality and quantity!

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Now we just ask you to spread the word. Okay- maybe your cab ride results may not be as powerful, but you never know WHO YOU'RE TELLING. Maybe they’ll be responsible for creating more world renowned cards! :)

Overall Top 10

Top 10 from Isobar's Offices

We're actually not 100% sure there's a Detroit office. We just noticed the return address on one of the packages was from Detroit and there were a BUNCH of quality cards! :)

#whoyouretelling #upliftingspirits

To see more pictures and stories please check out our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter , visit our Google+ page, or visit our LinkedIn page!