Our Sharing Smiles team screens each note before forwarding it to ensure the safety and privacy of both writers. We screen for content including: sensitive medical or financial information; exploitative or manipulative requests; sexual content; threats to self or others; and racist, sexist, or other offensive statements. We will not forward such content, and we reserve the right to terminate from the program any participant who sends inappropriate content.

Yes. The ONLY information each partner has is the other partner’s first name. They write to you via ETA’s dedicated Sharing Smiles email address. Our staff screens their notes and then forwards them on to you. You reply to the same Sharing Smiles email address, and we forward your replies to your partner, so you both remain anonymous to each other.

The younger writers send the first note, which should be an introduction sharing a little about themselves, sharing good wishes, and asking polite questions. We will suggest ideas and prompts. Older writers are encouraged to reply independently or with the assistance of activity coordinators or other staff. Remember: This is a chance to make a friendly connection with people who want to reach out while so many of us are feeling isolated. It can be fun to find out what you have in common and also how different you may be.

You will write the first note. We will send you some ideas and prompts when we let you know we’ve found a match for you. We encourage you to share a little about your own life and ask your partner questions. It can be fun to find out what you have in common and also how different you may be. Remember: This is a chance to make a friendly connection and share a smile with an older person in a time when many people are feeling isolated. If you like to draw, write poems, etc., feel free to share your talent!

FAQs Archive - Empowering the Ages

Q: What’s step one?

Sign up using our online form . We’ll ask your name, the name of your group, the age of your participants, and your address (email or mailing address, depending on which you want to use).

12 Next