Welcome to the You Matter Movement by the AVMA Trust
At the AVMA Trust…You Matter! Your commitment to the wellbeing of your patients is unmatched. But, sometimes, the weight of daily challenges and frustrations can test that commitment. In the most trying moments, extending and receiving grace—to yourself, your team, your clients, and those around you—is vital to your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing and the success of your practice.
That’s why we’ve started the “You Matter” movement. Designed to uplift, inspire, and express gratitude within the veterinary community, this movement aims to reinforce the importance of resilience, encouragement, and support.
While the care you provide patients is at the heart of what you do, your interactions with others—both in and outside the exam room—is important, too. The goal of the You Matter movement is to foster positive communications, strengthen connections between clients and the veterinary team, and celebrate the small acts of kindness that are a hallmark of our profession.
Join the movement because…You Matter!
Talking SMACK:
Small Acts of Kindness
Talking SMACK (SMall ACts of Kindness) is the heart of the “You Matter” movement! We understand that sometimes the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. Talking SMACK is our unique way of turning the concept of “talking smack” into something positive, uplifting, and smile-inducing within the veterinary profession.
Who Can Talk SMACK?
Talking SMACK is all about recognizing people in the veterinary community for small acts of kindness that often go unnoticed–but that deserve to be celebrated! It’s an opportunity to share stories, spread joy, and create a ripple effect of positivity within the profession. SMACK talk can be submitted by:
- Veterinarians
- Clients
- Clinic Staff
- Practice Owners
- Veterinary Organizations & Groups
- Veterinary Students
How Does It Work?
Step 1: Share Your SMACK
Whether it’s a colleague, practice owner, or employee going above and beyond in a difficult situation, a heartwarming moment with a patient, or a thoughtful gesture that made your day, share it with us! Your SMACK could be the chance to extend grace that someone else needs.
Step 2: Spread the Joy
Your SMACK stories–both serious and light-hearted–will be featured on our website, so don’t hold back on what you say. You never know who may be reading, and we need to offer grace to one another in the toughest of times as well. Take a moment to honor the resilience of those in the veterinary profession!
Step 3: Encourage and Connect
Leave comments, send virtual high-fives, and let others know that their acts of kindness matter. Talking SMACK is not just about sharing stories; it’s about building a community that uplifts and supports one another.
Join the Conversation
Talk SMACK
In the world of veterinary care, every act of kindness matters, and everyone deserves a moment to shine.
Let’s start Talking SMACK and make a positive impact, one story at a time!
*We will only contact you if we have a question about your comments. AVMA LIFE Trust reserves the right to make any necessary grammatical or spelling edits and/or to shorten your Talk SMACK submission if needed.
Do you know someone who deserves to be celebrated? Nominate them for the You Matter “Heart of the Matter” Award below!
Honoring Excellence:
“Heart of the Matter” Award
We believe in recognizing individuals who embody the spirit of compassion and dedication within the veterinary community. The You Matter movement takes this commitment to the next level with our “Heart of the Matter” Award, a prestigious recognition for DVMs who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to promoting wellbeing, fostering positive interactions, and making a tangible impact on their community.
Nominate a DVM colleague or mentor who has gone above and beyond, showing a strong commitment to wellbeing in practice, offering innovative programming, fostering team unity, engaging in impactful community outreach, providing mentorship, or performing an outstanding act of kindness. We’re not just looking for “nice people” but for individuals who have taken concrete actions to improve the lives of others in remarkable ways.
Selected nominees will be featured on our website, and the winner will be announced at an upcoming event, where we celebrate and honor the outstanding achievements of our peers!
You Matter Kits:
Tangible Reminders of Appreciation
We understand the daily challenges veterinarians face. That’s why we’ve assembled these special, free kits to serve as a reminder to give ourselves and those around us grace in the most difficult moments.
What’s Inside the Kits?
These kits are more than just packages; they are symbols of recognition and support. Each You Matter Kit includes:
- Wearable Pins: Adorn your clinic staff with these unique pins or hand them out to clients, proudly displaying the “You Matter” message. It’s a small but powerful way to express solidarity and support.
- Notepads and Sticky Notes with QR Codes: Practical and uplifting, these stationery items come with QR codes that link to inspiring content and resources.
- Posters and Clinic Signage: Let every corner of your clinic radiate positivity. Hang the posters in your lobby and break room to serve as a reminder to give support, show patience, and spread grace to one another.
How to Get Your You Matter Kit?
Getting your hands on these uplifting kits is easy!
Order Online: Place an order at left for comprehensive kits for your clinic.
Other Resources
Positive Pet Care Guide (For Veterinary Teams)
The AVMA’s Positive Pet Care Guide is a free resource that veterinary teams in companion animal practice can leverage to help foster healthy lines of communication and a positive partnership between staff and clients.
Download Positive Pet Care Guide PDF Download Effective Equine Care Guide PDF Tips for Navigating Challenging Client Conversations
