CARDS

CARDS is a unique and exciting way to get feedback on any aspect of your research project —from shaping the research question and study design to dissemination and implementation.

CARDS members share actionable, candid, and valuable feedback on project plans and public-facing materials to make them easier to read, more engaging, and more inclusive.

Since 2010, WINRS has coordinated CARDS meetings and partnered with the two CARDS groups to strengthen over 300 research projects. Meetings are centered on principles of equity, inclusion, and reciprocity.

WINRS strives to facilitate dynamic, impactful, and mutually beneficial interactions between CARDS and research teams.

Black and white photograph showing a group of eleven people standing indoors against a brick wall with three hanging lights above. Individuals wear casual clothing including hoodies, sweaters, and plaid shirts, with some smiling and posing closely together.

Black and white photograph of a group of ten people posing outdoors near a building, with one person seated holding a laptop displaying a video call with another individual. Group members wear casual clothing, and the setting includes trees, parked cars, and a grassy area

Who are CARDS Members?

There are two CARDS groups, each has approximately 12 members. One group is affiliated with Goodman Community Center and the other with Lussier Community and Education Center, both in Madison, WI.

CARDS members were recruited from community center programs such as senior meals, women’s groups, food pantries, and parenting programs. They bring valuable perspectives from diverse racial, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds.

CARDS groups have supported over 300 research projects at UW Madison and other institutions. Many CARDS members have served for over 10 years.

“I want you to know how important your work is to us and how much we value it.”

Photograph of a person named Rick, with membership details from CARDS (Community Advocates for Research and Education on Dementia Symptoms) shown on the left side. Text includes name, membership start year 2012, and pronouns (he/him), alongside a grayscale outdoor portrait.

“I am inspired to want to help when I feel and see a researcher’s passion for what they are doing.”

“The way CARDS brainstorms and figures things out together with researchers has helped me be more comfortable with research.”

Photograph of a person wearing a white tank top with two monkeys perched on their shoulders and head, set against a leafy outdoor background. The left side features a black and white text block with

“You are appreciated. We know what you are doing could have a big impact and we do not take it lightly.”

“I think the first rule of almost everything is to know your audience. We can help with that!”

“In the CARDS process we both grow at the same time. Everybody has something to offer.”

“Ask your questions and show up as you are. We are a diverse group with different skills and knowledge and we want to help.”

“I like when I can see at the end of a meeting people leave on a positive note, with new perspectives and ideas.”

“This matters. It makes a difference in people’s lives and makes them want to get involved with the research.”

“Research is a way to give to the community. I see the passion on both sides, both in you and me.”

“We are interested in your research! When you come, be patient, mindful, and respectful, and we will give it in return.”

“Have relationships in community with people who are different than you. This can broaden your understanding.”

Photograph of a person named Charly, a member of CARDS (Community Advisors on Research Design & Strategies) since 2012, wearing a hoodie. The layout includes a black and red text section on the left with membership details and pronouns (she/her), and a grayscale photo on the right showing Charly seated on a couch.

“I care about community, accessibility and research that is not driven by money.”

Photograph of a person named Shammari. He has long dreadlocks and is seated inside a vehicle. The picture is accompanied by a text section identifying pronouns

“Though you are a teacher, always remain a student.”

“I think humility and trust are two of the most important values you should center in research.”

“Research is important, especially community based research.”

“I have one thing I would like researchers to know—and that is to listen. Listen attentively.”

“CARDS opens me to new subjects, new thinking, new everything! It helps me open my mind. “

Black and white photograph showing two people sitting at a table with plates of food and papers in front of them, suggesting a casual or informal meeting or meal. The person on the right wears a plaid shirt and has long hair tied back, while the person on the left is dressed in a dark hoodie.

Photograph of a person sitting at a table, holding and reviewing papers. The person wears a short-sleeve shirt, a watch, a necklace, and a head covering, with a water bottle and cup visible on the table.

Working with CARDS is simple.

WINRS makes working with community advisors productive and uncomplicated.

Before the meeting, WINRS staff works with research teams to identify their priority questions and prepare a strategic meeting agenda.
During the meeting, researchers and/or their team members actively participate while WINRS manages all meeting logistics, facilitates CARDS sessions, and takes detailed notes to capture group discussion.
After the meeting, WINRS prepares and delivers detailed feedback reports, as well as revised materials based on input from CARDS.

Most CARDS meetings currently take place on Zoom, so they are accessible to research teams in any part of the country.

CARDS Meeting Services and Costs

Services provided by WINRS include:

Co-creating a strategic meeting agenda
Managing all logistics for the meeting
Facilitating the meeting
Writing a post-meeting feedback report
Revising materials incorporating CARDS’ input

CARDS Meeting Costs:
We offer a tiered pricing structure for CARDS meetings.

For researchers with funding: $2,300 per meeting, if a single meeting is scheduled. $2,000 per meeting, if multiple meetings are scheduled.
For graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, early-stage investigators, and researchers without funding: $750 per meeting.

* All prices cover the cost of payment to participants ($75 per 90-minute meeting)

Want to learn more?

Since 2010, CARDS has consulted on over three hundred projects.

To see sample CARDS projects, click here.

You can also check out these videos:

CARDS promotional video created by the UW Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. The department contracts CARDS meetings for their faculty so they can easily incorporate community perspectives into their work.

At the celebration of CARDS’ 10th anniversary, researchers shared how the CARDS made an impact on their research projects

Hear what CARDS have to say about the impact of their work

Black and white photograph of a group meeting around a long table, with ten people engaged in discussion and note-taking. The setting includes laptops, papers, and food, indicating a collaborative work or planning session in an office or community space.