Why Virtual Pen Pals?

As COVID-19 continues to spread, many of our daily routines have been turned upside down. The psychological impact of quarantine is hard on all of us, and is especially difficult for individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD). For many of these individuals, they are missing their friends, jobs, and favorite activities without a full understanding of WHY these things have been taken from them. Social interaction is especially important for teens and adults with an IDD. These teens and adults need someone to have a fun conversation with and look forward to, other than those that they are quarantined with. 

We’re looking for individuals who would like to take 15-30 minutes out of their day a few times a week to chat with a virtual pen pal over Zoom! Chat with a teen or adult about their day, sports, favorite activities, and more. Please keep in mind that it may be hard to understand what your new pen pal is saying, and that’s okay! You can ask them to repeat themselves as necessary. These chats are meant to be a fun and interactive way to connect with new people, it does not have to be perfect!

This is a temporary program only scheduled through the end of the COVID-19 quarantine, however, if successful for both parties, we may reevaluate extending the program. Whether you are a volunteer looking to help, or an individual with an IDD looking for a pen pal, sign up using the link below!