Early in 2025, Careworks partnered with Cardz for Kidz, a volunteer program changing the way community outreach functions. Since 2010, Cardz for Kidz has been on a mission dedicated to supporting children who are confined to a room while receiving testing and bringing them joy through handmade cards. Every card is hand-delivered room by room with a heartfelt message and big smile. This partnership has been redefining how we approach transitional work placement and offering fantastic opportunities for injured employees with restrictions surrounding their recovery.
Overcoming Language Barriers
*Marcus, a warehouse associate in the retail industry, was completing his daily tasks when he lifted a heavy box and developed a hernia. He was able to get the help he needed and work toward recovery, eventually being released with temporary restrictions. However, his employer was unable to accommodate him onsite, so a referral to transitional work services was initiated.
In reviewing the referral information, Careworks employees discovered Marcus only speaks Haitian Creole. Because of the lack of businesses also having Haitian Creole speakers, this made finding a brick-and-mortar not-for-profit site challenging. Looking over our partnerships, we saw Cardz for Kidz and knew it would be a perfect fit. Marcus was able to be set up with the business through the volunteer option and an interpreter was able to translate the instructions and explain the entire process. Since he started with Cardz for Kidz, he has completed over 1000 cards in his native language and is progressing to a full return with his original employer.
Getting Creative Through Recovery
*Richard was working as an order filler in the retail industry when he picked up a heavy box and injured his lower back. Richard works the third shift at his job as he is the primary caretaker for his children during the day, so a back injury would prove detrimental to his daily life as well as his children’s. As he worked toward recovery, the assigned transitional work placement coordinator (TWPC) suggested the Cardz for Kidz volunteer option. This position would accommodate his personal family obligations while also allowing him to maintain his schedule and give back to the community.
Contemplating the position, Richard admitted he was a bit intimidated about making the cards because he thought he lacked creativity and would not be able to create meaningful cards. Because of this, he asked if there was another assignment he could participate in instead. Understanding his concerns and knowing the ins and outs of the program, the TWPC explained to Richard how the children look forward to getting the cards and seeing what states they came from. They explained how the program is more about brightening a child’s day rather than making a perfect card. Upon hearing this, Richard decided to give the program a shot and has continued with it since. He has made over 500 cards so far, is thriving in the program and his recovery, and is on track to return to his original employer.
Working Around Extensive Restrictions
*Marianne was working as an assistant store manager in the retail industry when she suddenly tripped over a store display. Though she tried to catch herself, the fall resulted in her injuring her back and knees. Unfortunately, her restrictions were rather extensive, and among other restrictions, required a seated position with frequent rest breaks. It was determined that it would be best for Marianne to recover while completing remote work so all her restrictions could be accommodated.
Marianne did not have access to a computer at home, so instead, her TWPC suggested that she take part in the Cardz for Kidz volunteer program. Both Marianne and her employer agreed this would be a great alternative and she was set up with supplies and an overview of the program. From the beginning to end of her time with Cardz for Kidz, she made over 1500 cards, and ultimately, was able to return to full duty with her original employer.
An Injured Employee on Their Cardz for Kidz Experience
“I’m happy that I am working and not sitting around. I was worried about not being creative enough. The more I make cards, the better I am getting. It’s also nice to know that what I create will put a smile on someone’s face.”
*Names changed for privacy purposes