This Pen Pal program is not just about sending letters back and forth but creating long lasting friendships…

SNAIL MAIL PALS: In today’s fast paced technological world, when we think of communicating with friends we think of texting, tweeting, snapchating or DMing them; snail mail is slowly becoming obsolete but through GiGi’s PenPal program, two friends were brought closer then ever! Covid-19 has made it so hard to see our friends, so the idea behind this program was to give people social interaction in a fun, exciting way where they had something to look forward too throughout quarantine.

Because of this program, teen volunteer & Generation G Youth Board member Caroline and participant Anna were paired together and through their letter sharing, a deep friendship has blossomed. Caroline said she “deeply missed attending programs and interacting with participants,” so she was motivated to join the PenPal program. Even though it was virtual, Caroline said that she, “had the opportunity to create creative letters based off of upcoming holidays and interests of Anna’s” which is what brought them close as friends as they learned each others interests. This program clearly does not just benefit the participant and Caroline is proof of this; she shares that she “had the opportunity to learn a great deal about Anna within this program, such as her interests, favorite activities over quarantine, and programs she attends at The Playhouse.” You really learn the ins and outs of your pen pal and become true friends.

Caroline and Anna are still good friends and have continued to be pals even past the program’s completion & Anna and Caroline will be forever friends!