How to Find a Friend and Pen Pal

Pen pals forge global friendships.

Writing letters to connect with others is an exciting way to make a new friend. Every person yearns for meaningful interactions. Pen pals are easier to find today than ever before. Many websites are dedicated solely to helping people connect. However, establishing a pen pal friendship doesn't have to occur via computer. Whether choosing to mail old-fashioned letters or use modern technology, finding a pen pal is a great way to broaden your cultural perspective and develop a friendship that can last a lifetime.

Instructions

1. Think about the type of person you would like for a pen pal. The choices are literally limitless. Whether seeking to discuss personal beliefs or improve acquisition of a foreign language, there is a pen pal for you.

2. Explore different avenues to find the right pen pal. Multiple websites are devoted to pen pals from various walks of life. Whether you're interested in writing a military member, someone across the globe or even a prisoner, a website is available to help you connect.

3. Consider more traditional methods for finding a pen pal. Why not write a patient in a nursing home or hospital? Patients are sometimes hospitalized for months at a time undergoing treatments for cancer or other long-term illnesses.

4. Investigate ways of connecting to people with whom you share common interests. Membership in clubs, churches and other similar organizations provide a network of prospective pen pals.

5. Search the classified section of magazines and newspapers. People across the nation and around the world advertise a desire for personal relationships using print media.

6. Contemplate writing to someone you already know. Writing letters can open new facets of a friendship and reveal new and interesting things you never could have imagined about a friend.

Tips & Warnings

• When writing someone from a different culture, make sure to maintain a friendly and open dialogue so misunderstandings can be avoided or easily explained.

• When choosing a pen pal from the Internet, or any other place, remember you do not know the person. Do not send money, provide personal or financial information or enter into any agreement that seems remotely suspect.

References

• The Bridge of Hope Foundation: The Bridge of Hope Outreach Project
• Free Pen Pal.org: Welcome
• Make a Child Smile: Frequently Asked Questions
• Operation Military Pride: Frequently Asked Questions
• The Teachers Corner.net: School Pen Pals & Key Pals