Second graders at Avery’s Creek Elementary turned their year-long letter writing project into a heartfelt in-person meeting when they visited their pen pals at Ardenwoods Retirement Community.
Throughout this past school year, the students and residents exchanged handwritten letters, sharing stories about their lives, favorite hobbies, and special memories. For many of the children, this was their first time writing letters to someone they’ve never met.
When the long-awaited visit finally arrived, the students eagerly entered the retirement home, letter and drawings in hand, ready to meet the friends they had come to know through paper and pencil. Smiles and laughter filled the room as children and residents recognized one another from the stories they had shared.
Together, they spent the afternoon reading aloud, playing games, and enjoying conversations. Teachers noted that the experience taught students not only the art of letter writing but also the value of kindness, patience, and connection.
By the end of the visit, hugs were exchanged, photos were taken, and promises were made to keep writing. For both generations, the pen pal project had become more than just letters - it was a friendship that would be remembered for years to come.
