Northeast Iowa RSVP seeking volunteers for Pen Pal program with area third grade classes

The Northeast Iowa RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) is currently recruiting volunteers 25 years of age and older for its Pen Pal program in Allamakee, Howard and Winneshiek counties.

The Pen Pal program links third graders with volunteers through letter writing. The program allows students to practice their letter writing, including sentence and paragraph structure. They learn how to generate ideas, ask and answer questions, and correctly address and sign a written letter.

The RSVP volunteer letter writers gain a lot through the experience as well. Receiving an actual letter can brighten anyone’s day. Making a new friend and reading about a child’s interests and accomplishments can boost one’s mental well-being.

The only supplies needed are a pen or pencil and paper. Those who are “snowbirds” or “seasonal residents” can also be involved, as letters can be scanned in and sent to their location.

Those interested in participating in the Pen Pal program will need to attend one of the upcoming kick-off meetings to choose their pen pal(s) and pick up their supplies and directions. Those who have participated in the program previously should sign up for an upcoming Open House session, which will offer a brief refresher. All new RSVP pen pals will need to sign up for an orientation session.

Individuals interested in helping a child’s literary skills and enjoying a positive connection with a child through the RSVP Pen Pal program should contact RSVP at neirsvppenpalprogram@gmail.com, through the Northeast Iowa RSVP Facebook page, or by calling 563-277-5181.