2020 PenPal Program
With the spread of COVID-19, SDC is introducing a new program: SDC PenPal. This program will provide you or—if you are a parent—your child with a meaningful platform where you/they can connect and learn from a big buddy.
The mission and goals of this program are to connect people with disabilities to those without, providing them with a safe platform to get to know each other. Both the child and volunteer will be able to gain valuable experience from each other and be able to make new friends from around the world, regardless of the current circumstances.
How is it conducted? (Big Buddy):
After reviewing your application, we will email you to schedule an interview through a video call and a training session will ensue. You will then be paired up with a child (age 5-13). Communication between you and your little buddy will be through the emailing of handwritten letters. We will offer some conversation prompts to aid you in getting started. Each message will first be screened by SDC to make sure it is appropriate and it will then be sent to your buddy.
How is it conducted? (Little Buddy):
After reviewing the applications, we will pair you up with a trained high-school volunteer to become PenPals with. The child can use a parent’s email or their own to send the handwritten or typed messages. We will offer you some conversation prompts to aid you in getting started.