If you have a little spare time and would like to become involved in a very interesting and rewarding activity, consider becoming a pen pal. Many pen pals participate in this type of correspondence for a variety of reasons. Some would like to connect with another individual from a land that they may never visit but have an interest in its people and culture. Sophisticated language translation applications are readily available so foreign languages are no barrier. Pen pals from every nation, culture, age group and language are seeking others who share their interests and activities.
You may think that the internet has reduced the number of traditional pen pals out there, but that is simply not true. It is true that many pen pal clubs can be found on the internet, in print, and in clubs and special interest groups, connecting people via Skype and similar social media programs. Many others, however, prefer the traditional means of communicating with their pen pal through snail mail via the postal service. There is something so satisfying in receiving a stuffed envelope with your name and address and a beautiful foreign stamp on the top right corner.
If you are unsure how to begin, there are extremely helpful on-line organizations that can guide you through the process of locating suitable pen pal candidates and if interested, point you to a wide variety of pen pal clubs.
Perhaps you have children who are interested in becoming pen pals. There are websites that can get them started in an individual relationship or through an exciting “Adopt a School Program”, connecting students around the world.
Get started right now! Reach out and touch someone.