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Love from Kaimuki to the World
by TISHA WOYTENKO
Sun Correspondent
Archived April 2008 article
In the heart of Kaimuki exists a nonprofit organization where two women send out handmade cards to over 400 seriously ill children each week with donations made by volunteer crafters, kids and artists. Their goodwill inspires volunteers to send in boxes of handmade greeting cards from all over the world to be used to spread cheer to these children. Sometimes working into the wee hours to get all 420 cards sent out before a holiday, the Executive Assistant, Amber Musser, handwrites a message in each one. "Knowing that this small gesture of sending cards across the miles to spread smiles can help the children through their tough time," says Amber, "makes it all worth it."
The President of Keiki Cards, Annette Marie, moved the organization from Ohio to Hawaii in 1999, shortly after the passing of the original founder's own critically ill child. Annette knew there was a need to continue this mission of sending love and Aloha to these special children. This move hasn't slowed them down one bit and has, in fact, found the Aloha spirit to be confirming to their cause. Keiki Cards is a 501 (c) 3 organization that is funded by the generous support of its donors and volunteers and they welcome all donations of any size.
Their immediate needs are for volunteers to help in the office to sort incoming mail and organize cards, as well as gifts of postage stamps, A2 (4-3/8 x 5-3/4 inches) envelopes and Keiki Cards return address labels.
Keiki Cards would also like to increase their local recipients list. Do you know of a seriously ill child who would enjoy receiving weekly, handmade cards from Keiki Cards? If so, you can print a child sign-up form from their website at www.keikicards.org. "We have so many ideas," says President, Annette Marie, "but so few hands." Volunteers would allow them to go to local hospitals to hand out pamphlets and spread the word about this free program for children and let parents know about this resource that is available to them.
Keiki Cards' mission is to send love and inspiration through the mail with these handmade, handwritten cards. Some children, due to their illness, are isolated and lonely. "Our goal is to give the child support through the mail and let the child know someone is thinking of them," said Annette. Keiki Cards sends out weekly cards to the children as well as a holiday gift and birthday gift. They also have a sibling support program called Cards of Aloha.
Christmas time is an important time of year for Keiki Cards. Each child receives a card and gift and the office is filled with boxes of both. In addition to Christmas, the children receive cards for all holidays and seasons. In return, Keiki Cards receives heartfelt letters, emails, and pictures from the families and children themselves to say thank you, letting them know how much these cards mean to their children. "We get one a week, at least," says Amber. You can read postings like this and links to some of the children's public websites at their website.
If you are looking for a local charity to donate your time and financial gifts, check out Keiki Cards at www.keikicards.org or make an appointment to volunteer at (808) 732-2737. They now offer parking validation in their covered parking garage below the building. You can also send your contributions of stamps, money, and cards to Keiki Cards, PMB 5-532 4224 Waialae Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816. Keiki Cards office hours are Monday to Friday, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Email: keikikidscards@aol.com
This would be a great opportunity for large organizations, churches, students, retirees, companies, or inspired individuals to truly make a difference. If you feel inspired to donate, they are in most need of Hawaii-themed holiday cards and cards for male teens (skateboarding, surfing, cars, snowboarding, etc.) Their older male recipients are further encouraged when they receive "cool" cards without the typical hearts and bears.
A few guidelines to remember when making cards: (see also Card Making Guidelines online at keikicards.org)
- Sign the cards on the inside, right hand bottom of the cards - "Love, Keiki Cards." Envelopes with postage already affixed are appreciated.
- Please refrain from sending "Get Well" cards, as they do not like to call attention to the child's illness. Please keep cards cheery and upbeat!
- Make a packing list. Keiki Cards keeps a record of exactly what was received from the volunteers. For example: 50 cards and envelopes, 10 bookmarks, 4 sticker sheets. Include your contact information with email address or a self-addressed, stamped envelope for Keiki Cards to confirm they received your donation or simply print a packing card slip from their website.
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