Volunteers write handwritten, one-of-a-kind letters for senior citizens in aged care homes and senior programs. Instead of generic well wishes or affirmations, share personal stories, memories, or everyday experiences in a conversational tone. Write as though you’re speaking to a friend—seniors cherish letters that feel authentic and heartfelt because they create a genuine sense of connection. Keep your messages positive and avoid sensitive topics like religion, holidays, politics, health and mobility.
When your letters are ready to mail, choose a destination facility from one of our partners in Southern Nevada, San Bernardino County, Arizona or across the country. Our list of requests refreshes every two weeks, year-round, so there’s always a place that needs your letters.
Keep in mind that most seniors won’t be able to reply, so each letter is truly a one-time act of kindness.
Getting Started
- Register: Visit our website and complete the registration form at the bottom of the home page. Students and groups should follow the links to their separate forms.
- Check Your Welcome Email: It includes instructions for accessing our user portal. If you don’t see the email, check your junk or promotions folder.
- Tour the Portal: Follow the portal’s pop-up tour when you log in. If you need extra guidance, email me anytime to request a step-by-step guide.
Special Holiday Note
During the holiday season, we encourage you to share your unique stories instead of holiday-specific wishes. This keeps your letters meaningful for seniors beyond the holidays. For specific guidance, review our holiday guidelines for letter content and mailing deadlines.
Connect with Us
Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay updated, see inspiring stories and connect with our community of volunteers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I write about?
Think of your letter as a friendly conversation. Share personal stories, hobbies, or a favorite memory. Avoid sensitive topics like religion, politics, holidays, health and mobility. Asking a question demonstrates an interest in the reader, gives them something to think about and inspires conversation. We've created this general guide and these lists of notable dates for each month.
2. Where do I mail my letters?
After registering, check your welcome email for portal access instructions. If you can’t find it, check your junk or promotions folder, or email me for assistance.
3. Can I mail letters to other countries?
Yes! With facilities in four countries, you’re welcome to choose a destination locally or internationally. Just ensure you use the correct postage for international mail.
4. What if there are no facilities in the location where I want to write?
Our user portal refreshes every two weeks, so check back at the start of the next cycle. If there are no facilities near you, you can also choose a location in another region or country if mailing farther away is an option.
5. Do you accept letters in other languages?
Yes! Use the language filter in our user portal to find destinations that accept letters in any of 30 different languages.
6. Can groups or organizations volunteer? How about teachers and educators?
Absolutely! Whether you’re part of a student club, workplace team, community group or classroom, our resources are designed to support group participation. Start here.
7. Can I earn community service hours for my letters?
Yes, students can earn 15 minutes of service time per approved letter. Register using the student form and share photos of your letters with your assigned Community Service Liaison.
8. Is there any commitment required to volunteer?
No, there’s no commitment until you pledge letters in the user portal. You’re free to write as many or as few letters as you’d like, whenever it suits your schedule.
9. What happens if I pledge letters but can’t complete them?
Once you pledge letters in the portal, those letters are reserved specifically for you. It’s important to complete and send them so the seniors receive the connections they’re waiting for. If you’re unsure about your availability, it’s best to wait until you’re ready to write before making a pledge.
10. How do the facilities handle letters?
Each location handles letters differently. Staff often review them to ensure the content is appropriate, and they may try to match letters with individual readers. Some places post letters on bulletin boards, read them as a group activity, distribute them to individuals at mealtimes or place them in baskets for seniors to pick and share. Letters sent to Meals on Wheels programs are typically shared by a volunteer who doesn’t know the recipient. Specific details or requests from facilities may be noted in the user portal.
11. Will I receive a reply to my letter?
Most seniors aren’t able to reply, but your letter will still mean the world to them. Treat it as a one-time act of kindness that brings joy and connection.
12. Can my aged care home, senior center or meals on wheels program receive letters?
Please ask a director or manager to register as a care home.
If you have any questions, need guidance or have suggestions for how we can improve, don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for being part of our mission to spread joy to seniors!
