Looking for Penpals?

Since several at WA expressed an interest in my last blog, Is Handwriting a Dying Art, I thought I might follow it with a possibility of choosing an inmate as a means to exchange handwritten notes and letters.

The interest in getting and sending handwritten notes prompted me to send this blog as a possible way to find someone with whom to write.

Over the years I have corresponded with a number of inmates. I only do handwritten letters.

There Are Some Risks

Finding and corresponding with an inmate can be risky. Besides, this isn't for everyone.

However, the good far outweighs the bad.

Some risks do exist:

• getting conned
• inmate trying to get something from you
• your address exposed
• becoming too personal
  

Can I tell you that you are in charge of all the above. I use a post office box address, and I write to those inmates with whom I have personally known.

I do correspond with several inmates on social media, and many have sent me friend requests on Facebook.

Jpay

Although this post concerns sending handwritten messages, inmates do have access to email messages. Most inmates want to get you involved with Jpay. Jpay gives them a means to receive money into their prison accounts

I'd suggest you keep your writing to handwritten messages. If you go the Jpay route, you aren't keeping handwriting alive, and most likely you will get conned into sending them money.

The requests begin small with a sob story about needing this or that item. I would highly recommend that you keep your contact with an inmate pen pal to written notes and letters.

Lots of caution here!!!

If you decide to find an inmate with whom to share written messages, know that it could be dangerous. Many inmates are looking for a lamb to fleece, so don't be their sacrificial lamb.

However, after serving over 40 years as a volunteer chaplain, I know the value placed on receiving mail by an inmate. It becomes a special time when mail is received by them.

Choose Someone You Know

Since one in every 100 Americans are incarcerated, you may know an inmate. Most of us do!

Maybe one of your former classmates has been incarcerated. He/she would love to hear from you. Choose him/her as a possible pen pal and exchange letters with that individual.

I would suggest, also, that you choose someone of the same sex as you to write. It keeps things much simpler if you do.

As always, I am here to help. Let me know if you have questions or concerns.w