Why We Thank Abortion Providers
Every day, abortion providers and clinic staff show up for their patients despite extraordinary challenges. They provide compassionate, expert health care while facing increasing political attacks, harassment, misinformation, and stigma.
A simple note of thanks can go a long way.
Through the Thank an Abortion Provider project, supporters have an opportunity to send messages of appreciation to the doctors, nurses, advanced practice clinicians, medical assistants, patient navigators, receptionists, educators, and support staff who make abortion care possible.
Your words remind providers that they are valued, supported, and appreciated by their community.
Host a Thank an Abortion Provider Event
Looking for a meaningful way to take action with friends, family, coworkers, classmates, or community members? Host a Thank an Abortion Provider card-writing party.
These events are easy to organize and create a powerful opportunity for supporters to come together in support of reproductive health care providers.
What You’ll Need
- Blank cards, postcards, or stationery
- Pens and markers
- Stickers or decorative supplies (optional)
- A comfortable space with tables and seating
- Snacks and refreshments (optional)
- A playlist to create a welcoming atmosphere
- Information about Planned Parenthood and upcoming volunteer opportunities
What Your PPCWNY Contact Can Help Provide
- Information about where cards should be sent
- Examples of supportive messages
- Advocacy materials and volunteer opportunities
- Buttons, stickers, and other take-away materials for participants
- Additional guidance for hosting your event
Card-Writing Guidelines
The goal is simple: express appreciation and support.
Do:
- Thank providers for their work.
- Acknowledge the importance of abortion care.
- Keep messages brief and heartfelt.
- Focus on gratitude, compassion, and encouragement.
- Sign your first name only, or sign as “A Planned Parenthood Supporter.”
Don’t:
- Mention specific politicians or current legislation.
- Ask providers questions that require a response.
- Include contact information.
- Seal cards – it is important that our staff are able to vet the thank you cards before giving them to providers. If cards are sealed, we may not be able to use them.
Message Writing Tips
Many people worry they won’t know what to write. The good news is that simple messages are often the most meaningful.
A few sentences is all you need.
Focus on:
- Gratitude
- Encouragement
- Appreciation for their expertise and compassion
- Recognition of the impact they have on patients’ lives
Example Messages
Short Messages
- “Thank you for providing compassionate care to your patients every day.”
- “Your dedication to reproductive health care makes a difference. Thank you.”
- “Thank you for showing up for your patients and community.”
- “We appreciate the care, expertise, and kindness you bring to your work.”
- “Your work matters. Thank you for being there for patients who need you.”
Longer Messages
- “Thank you for the care and compassion you provide every day. Your commitment helps ensure that patients receive the health care they deserve.”
- “Please know that there are people throughout our community who appreciate and support the work you do. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of your patients.”
- “Your expertise, dedication, and compassion help countless people access care. We are grateful for everything you do.”
- “Thank you for providing high-quality care and treating patients with dignity and respect. Your work has a positive impact every day.”
Event Facilitation Tips
If you’re hosting a group event:
- Welcome participants and share the purpose of the project.
- Explain the card-writing guidelines.
- Display example messages to help people get started.
- Allow participants time to write cards and decorate them if they choose.
- Collect completed cards and coordinate delivery through your PPCWNY contact.
Remember: the goal is not to write the perfect message. The goal is to let providers know they are appreciated.
Ready to Get Involved?
Hosting a Thank an Abortion Provider card-writing event is an easy, meaningful way to take action, build community, and support the providers who care for patients every day.
Reach out to getinvolved@ppcwny.org to coordinate drop off of cards, ask questions, and learn more about hosting your own Thank an Abortion Provider event.