Tips for Participating in a Letter-Writing Campaign to Others

Many people have been placed in detention centers or tent cities, feeling alone and isolated. Various organizations are engaged with nonprofits that focus on the well being of detainees and partner to write monthly letters. This idea has its roots in letter writing efforts to people in the military as well as people who are incarcerated. Interestingly, one does not have to agree with why a person is where they are to appreciate that we are all connected in one human family. Reaching out to another human being who is alone and likely scared can help them face what is ahead.

Each of us can choose to devote time each month to join in the effort to connect with people from different backgrounds and out of a sense of shared community and compassion, and reach out to those suffering.

We can research organizations in our community that are already involved in letter-writing campaigns, or are interested in beginning one. Or, gather family and friends and start our own campaigns.

We can try to meet experienced volunteers and have them share some of the topics they write about which have proved successful.

Finally, we can consider topics that engages the recipient. They may be about customs they grew up with, or their interests, or sharing information about what is of interest to them.

Letter-writing programs can restore a sense of hope and dignity to those who are homeless and/or feeling unwelcome. The exercise demonstrates to recipients that they are valuable, and that there are people who feel for them and what they are going through. The point is to make them feel less alone.