Students participate in National Write a Letter to an Elder Day

Chester Academy and Chester Elementary School students are spreading kindness and connection this winter by participating in National Write a Letter to An Elder Day, recognized annually on Feb. 26.

District Library Media Specialist Catherine Incledon spearheaded the month-long initiative at Chester schools, with the goal of bringing together students across grade levels to write uplifting letters and cards to seniors at Glen Arden, assisted living, Chester Senior Center, and Chester recipients of Meals on Wheels. The letter-writing campaign gave students opportunities to practice empathy, kindness, and active citizenship, all while making a positive impact on the lives of local elders.

Day created to encourage connection with seniors

National Write a Letter to An Elder Day was created to encourage people of all ages to reach out to senior members of their communities and families to combat isolation and loneliness among older adults. This can be especially helpful during the winter, when cold weather, icy conditions, and shorter days can make it difficult for seniors to get out and about or even receive visitors.

“For many of our elderly community members, a letter from a young person brings a moment of connection and a welcome bright spot in their day,” Ms. Incledon said, as she prepared to drop off the bundles on Feb. 25. She added that one of the goals of the project was to practice and improve writing skills, but that the overall impact – for both the students and the recipients – was much greater.

“I’ve been so proud of these students, seeing them model the social and emotional learning skills (SEL) of empathy and compassion,” she beamed. “And their letters are going to build wonderful intergenerational community connections.”

Project teaches empathy for older residents

The Chester students wrote upbeat greeting cards and letters, sharing positive messages, jokes, and even their thoughts on favorite local restaurants and shops.

“From the SEL standpoint, the project asked students to reflect on how an elderly person living alone may be feeling right now. If they were in their shoes, how would they feel about receiving such a greeting card,” Ms. Incledon said. “What would you want it to say? What do you do when you feel sad or lonely?”

Together, Chester students are proving that a simple letter can help bridge generations and make our community stronger, all while strengthening fundamental skills.