Connecting Generations. Strengthening Communities.
Light The Way is bringing students and older adults together through simple, personal connections that can make a lasting difference for both generations.
Our student programs give young people opportunities to build relationships with seniors in their own community while helping older adults stay connected, engaged, and valued.
A Letter Can Start a Friendship
One letter. Two generations. A connection that can grow all year.
The Light The Way Pen Pal Program connects 5th-grade students with older adults in local senior living communities.
Students and seniors exchange approximately one letter each month throughout the school year. What begins as a simple letter can become an opportunity for two generations to learn about one another, share stories, discover common interests, and build a connection they may not otherwise have had.
How It Works
Light The Way partners with local schools and senior communities to coordinate the program.
Students & Seniors Are Matched
Each participating student is matched with a senior pen pal, creating an opportunity for a one-to-one connection throughout the school year.
Letters Are Exchanged
Students and seniors use first names only and exchange approximately one letter each month as their relationship develops.
Light The Way Coordinates
Light The Way helps coordinate the exchange of letters, including providing envelopes and postage to help keep the experience simple for participating schools and communities.
Letters may be reviewed by Light The Way or participating school/community staff for safety and appropriateness. Initial letters may receive additional review, with periodic or random review as the program continues.
Small moments can make a meaningful difference.
Connection, conversation and purpose.
- Something to look forward to
- Social connection and conversation
- An opportunity to share memories, experiences, and wisdom
- A stronger connection to younger generations and the local community
Perspective, empathy and confidence.
- A real-world reason to practice writing and communication
- Exposure to people from another generation
- Opportunities to develop empathy, curiosity, and confidence
- A chance to hear stories and perspectives they may never encounter in a classroom
Most importantly, it reminds students and seniors alike that relationships do not have an age limit.
Starting locally. Building something that can grow.
Light The Way is beginning the Pen Pal Program as a pilot in Johnston, Iowa, in partnership with a local elementary school and participating senior communities.
Our goal is to learn from this first group, develop a program that works well for students, teachers, seniors, families, and communities, and create a model that can eventually be expanded to additional schools and communities.
contactus
(515) 808-5637
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