Looking for a joyful way to make a difference? Love sharing stories, wisdom, and kindness?
We’re inviting volunteers age 55 and older to join our Pen Pal Program and write to wonderful 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students who are excited to receive real letters from real friends.
All you need is a willing heart, a few minutes, and the joy of putting pen to paper. Your letters can inspire confidence, spark creativity, and brighten a child’s month.
Why become a Pen Pal?
• It’s meaningful and fun
• Kids LOVE receiving letters
• You’ll be a positive role model
• It’s a great way to share experiences, hobbies, and encouragement
Whether you enjoy telling short stories, sharing life lessons, doodling in the margins, or simply writing a friendly hello, your words will make a lasting impact.
Ready to bring smiles, spark imagination, and create a friendship across generations?
Program Description: The RSVP Pen Pal Program provides students, typically in grades 3, 4, or 5, an opportunity for building intergenerational relationships while strengthening their social-emotional skills through letter writing with an RSVP volunteer Pen Pal.
Duties include:
· Attend the Pen Pal Kickoff and Match meeting in the fall.
· Complete an All About Me profile form to introduce yourself to the student.
· Write letters to the Pen Pal(s) from October to April/May.
· Mail each letter to the teacher within a week of receiving the student’s letter. Letters come about once a month.
· Attend the Pen Pal Meet & Greet party at your student’s school.
Amount of time: Pen Pals usually spend about a half hour to an hour writing each letter.
Expectations:
· Follow the Pen Pals Best Practices
· Please mail letters on time – a late letter will cause a delay for the whole classroom.
· If you are unable to send a letter as scheduled, notify the RSVP office as soon as possible to make other arrangements.
· Do not share your contact information or have contact with students outside of the Pen Pal program.
· Serve as a role model; offer a positive attitude and nurturing influence in your letters.
· Maintain confidentiality – do not use your student's last name when talking to others.
· Communicate any concerns and/or questions about your Pen Pal or the program to the RSVP office.
Benefits:
· Build a relationship with a young person.
· Witness a student’s growth.
· Help keep the art of letter writing alive.
