How it Works » FAQ

1. I’d like to know a little about the person who will receive my card. Is that possible?

   Yes! All recipients provide a profile that they write themselves, which you can read online or print out if you so desire. Most recipients will also include a photograph which is posted at our site as well.

2. I can’t decide how to choose the recipients I write to. I’d write to all of them if I could! How do I choose recipients fairly?

   Our website automatically rotates patient profiles so that they get equal exposure to everyone viewing the first page. In addition, you can also use our random recipient chooser that will help make your selections for you.

3. How much do I have to spend on postage to ensure that the cards will be delivered promptly?

   Nothing, accurate postage is already on the pre-addressed envelopes when you receive them with your cards. When we say, “all you have to do is write the cards,” we really mean it! Everything else is handled for you.

4. I’ve already sent cards once this year. Can I send a second set of cards?

   Absolutely. There is no limit to how many times you participate. Many communicators participate quarterly and even monthly. Each time you send cards with Compassionate Communications, your recipients receive another wonderful surprise, your chosen charity receives another donation, and you have contributed another deliberate act of kindness to the planet.

5. I love writing to my patients and would like to send them some other items. Is it appropriate to send them gifts?

   It’s wonderful how many times we receive this question. This is by no means required or expected — and if you are prompted to do so, we say, “follow your heart!”

6. I really want to be sure about the quality of the cards I’m ordering. How would you describe the card quality?

   We wanted to be sure too! That’s why we have paired exclusively with Hallmark Business Expressions a subsidiary of Hallmark Cards, the leading designer of quality greeting cards in the US. Hallmark’s creative staff consists of around 800 artists, designers, stylists, writers, editors, and photographers, and they have created an exclusive custom line just for this program. Our website enables you to preview all your cards, front and back, before selecting them, as well as gives you an option to have your picture printed in the cards before delivery.

7. A friend of mine saw me writing cards. When she heard about Compassionate Communications, she really wanted to participate. What’s the best information to give her?

   Thank you for sharing our program. Every day, Compassionate Communications is delighted to welcome more extraordinary participants into our program. The best first step is to have your friend visit our website, where information is available about all aspects of how our program works. More questions? E-mail us or call toll free at (888) 337-6416.

8. English is not my preferred language. Is it possible to find Spanish-speaking recipients?

   Yes. You can specify this in your recipient search, in the language selection field.

9. I’d like to make Compassionate Communications a focus for my workplace or spiritual community as part of our service work. Is that possible?

   Great idea. This works best if each person places his or her own order separately. Then, when your kits arrive, you can all sit together and write your cards on a break, at lunchtime, etc. Writing cards in groups magnifies the experience as well as gives the benefit of sharing in mutual inspiration.

10. Can just writing cards really make a difference?

    Absolutely. Your decision to share yourself with someone who is facing a life-threatening illness can be the difference that makes a difference. Illness can be an isolating and draining experience. Your cards are a ray of sunshine. In addition to that, there is increasing statistical evidence on the positive effects of healing intention. According to Dr. Larry Dossey,, 60 out of the 125 medical schools currently have courses devoted to the role of spirituality and prayer in healing.

11. I don’t see the charity that I would like to support in your list. Can I participate anyway?

    If you’d like to see your charity become a part of our program, let us know and we’ll look at inviting them. Let your charity know about just some of the great benefits of participating too: Support for their patients, increased donations, and all at no cost. And, in the meantime, you are welcome to participate with any of the active affiliate charities listed.

12. I see some of the recipients are described as “post-treatment.” Why would they be receiving cards if they are well again?

    While patients may currently be post-treatment, this may not mean they are fully recovered. And even if they are, keeping well and living strong are enormously affected by staying positive. Your cards can help make that happen.

13. I see Compassionate Communications is based in California and I live in another state. Can I still participate?

    Yes! We accept participants from all 50 states. We are working hard to add support for countries outside of the United States.

14. I’d like to print my photo inside my card to personalize it. What are the printer settings I need for my printer to do that?

    No need! You can upload your picture as part of the card selection process and it will be auto sized and printed on your cards for you. When they arrive, your smiling face will already be there.