Postcard Exchange Program
Dear Elderly Immigrants
distant hugs & heritage bridges present...
Join our penpal program connecting students
across the U.S. with elderly immigrants
through letters and postcards. Build
meaningful relationships, foster belonging,
and gain insight into diverse life experiences—
all while earning volunteer hours!
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About the
Program
Student volunteers will be paired with elderly immigrants
participating in Heritage Bridges' newcomer English class. Each elder
will be introduced to their pen pal with a brief profile (photo of the
individual and a few fun facts) to create a sense of familiarity.
This program fosters intergenerational connection, cross-cultural
appreciation, and emotional support through handwritten letters
and postcards. Every letter you send counts as 2 hours of
community service!
what's the goal?
Heritage Bridges is a Boston-based nonprofit that empowers
elderly AAPI immigrants through free online and in-person
programs. We've reached over 1,000 elders through English
classes, calligraphy, and cultural events.
Our pen pals are elderly immigrants from places like Hong Kong,
China, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Singapore. They've studied English for
3+ years and are excited to share their stories, traditions, and
hobbies—while learning more about American culture in return.
about heritage bridges & our penpals:
How it works:
Elders will send a handwritten postcard or letter to their assigned
student pen pal, with prompts provided to help spark
conversation (e.g. cultural traditions, memories, hobbies). Heritage
Bridges handles mailing the elder’s letter to the student. Students
will then mail their handwritten response back to Heritage Bridges.
Postcard exchanges will occur every few months based on
student availability, and pairs are welcome to continue writing
beyond the program if they wish.
postcard/letter exchange:
3 easy steps!
Students: Get Involved!
1) Fill out the google form (link in bio) to get matched with an
elderly pen pal!
2) Once matched, you will receive an email from Distant Hugs
with info on your pen pal.
3) Wait for a letter from your pen pal. Once you receive their
letter, you can write back! 1 letter = Earn 2 hours of
community service!