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Impact Stories

Stories From Our Families

What a campaign looked like for a few of our families, in their own words where we have them.

These Kids Believe in Me

He had relapsed and told his mom he could not do chemo again. Then 500 cards arrived from a local school.

A Ramp for the School Bus

Highland Elementary ran a dance off. The money the kids raised built an ADA ramp on the Biesiada family's house.

Two Cars to Carry It Home

13abc covered Ayanna's campaign while it was still running, and somehow the surprise held.

We Are Here for You

Kennedy's mom asked to keep her thank you short, then rewrote it many times.

FAQs

Your Questions Answered

Answers to how a campaign works, who qualifies, and where your gift goes.

Who can receive a card campaign?

Children ages 3 to 17 in Northwest Ohio or Southeast Michigan who are facing a chronic or terminal illness, or going through major treatment. That includes cancer, sickle cell, children on a transplant list, and children recovering from serious accidents and multiple surgeries.

How many cards does a child actually get?

More than a thousand for most campaigns. Each child's flyer goes out to schools, churches and youth groups across the area, and classrooms make cards for about four weeks.

Does the family get anything besides cards?

Yes. Every family receives a $500 donation from us, along with gift cards for gas, groceries and restaurants, and brand new toys, books and games for the child. At Christmas, sponsors adopt the whole family and provide gifts for every child in the household.

How far do you travel?

About an hour to an hour and a half north and south of Toledo. We drive every delivery ourselves, which is what sets the boundary.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes. Operation Surprise Attack is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 87-3484307. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Can my school or church run a card drive?

Yes. Most of our cards come from schools, churches and youth organizations, and it is often the art teacher who runs it. Get in touch and we will send you the current campaign flyers.

Take Action

Let's Surprise the Next Child Together

Make one card, run a card drive with your class, or sponsor a whole campaign.

Get Involved