About us - Our History

The "You were appreciated" cards and website are modelled on the "You were seen" movement set up in 2019 by Karen Kingsbury, a #1 New York Times Bestselling author. Karen Kingsbury dreamed of a national movement in America where Christians would be generous tippers and tell people who serve them that they are seen.

Aotearoa New Zealand is a different country to America and we are not known for our tipping, but we are known for our friendliness and for being generous in other ways. Past years have been difficult with the COVID pandemic, as well as with other disasters, and it has been especially difficult for people who serve us in our communities. It is important that they know that they are appreciated and valued.

The "You were appreciated" cards are a way that you can show people in your community that they are appreciated and loved. A kind message of appreciation can go a long way. Just carry the cards with you in your wallet or phone and hand them out as you go through your day. If you wish, you can write your own personal message on the back of the card.

Who gets a "You were appreciated" card

You can give a card to anyone you interact with in your day: your favourite cafe worker, a paramedic, a volunteer, a nurse, your GP, your local Pharmacist, a supermarket worker, a taxi driver, a neighbour. That is up to you.